Editor’s note: this is the first piece from new staff writer Garrett Brown. He’ll be contributing to our site’s coverage. Please give him a warm welcome as we’re excited for him to join our team at Peachtree Hoops.
A champion lands in the A.
Aaron Wiggins brings versatility and championship experience to an Atlanta Hawks team looking to take another step forward.
The first player Atlanta traded for this offseason, Wiggins helped establish the direction of the Hawks’ summer. Improving depth and adding
defensive flexibility became priorities, and the former Oklahoma City wing offers both while bringing experience that should benefit a young roster.
In the modern NBA, Wiggins fits the mold of a 3-and-D wing. Last season with the Thunder, he shot 36 percent from beyond the arc on 4.2 attempts per game. His shooting gives Atlanta another perimeter option alongside Jalen Johnson, particularly when opposing defenses collapse into the paint.
However, Wiggins can contribute beyond catching and shooting. He has shown the ability to attack closeouts, finish around the rim and handle the ball when needed. That versatility should help him keep possessions moving when the initial offensive action breaks down.
His career-high performance against Sacramento on February 1, 2025, demonstrated his scoring potential. Wiggins finished with 41 points on 16-for-30 shooting, including six three-pointers. Atlanta will not expect those numbers regularly, but that outing illustrates his ability to provide additional offense when opportunities arise.
Defensively, Wiggins can guard multiple perimeter positions and make an impact away from the ball. His active hands help disrupt passing lanes, while his awareness allows him to rotate into position for a potential steal or block. Those habits should fit Snyder’s emphasis on creating offense through defensive execution.
With Zaccharie Risacher and Jonathan Kuminga gone, the Hawks have responsibilities to redistribute on the wing. Wiggins should help fill that void, although Atlanta’s improved depth means he will need to earn consistent minutes through reliable shooting and disciplined defense.
His championship background adds another layer to that role. Alongside Lu Dort, Wiggins gives Atlanta another player who understands the preparation and commitment required to win at the highest level.
“There’s championship pedigree and experience that I bring, but with that as a basketball player, there’s competitiveness and just the motivation to win again that exists within me,” Wiggins said.
Wiggins believes that competitive energy can be contagious, helping teammates push one another and improve together. For a young Hawks roster, his everyday approach could prove as valuable as his individual production.
Head coach Quin Snyder also recognizes the importance of adding championship experience. He connected that background to defending consistently, establishing strong habits and giving Atlanta opportunities to run.
“I think first, to add players with championship-level pedigree, that’s something in and of itself that’s an excellent addition,” Snyder said. “Fundamentally, you do understand the importance of defending….that’s something our team began to really embrace. It’s a crucial element of our team…and when we’re grounded there and with our habits, that’s when we’ll be able to run. Those [Wiggins & Dort] guys have experienced that.”
Wiggins does not need to become a featured scorer to have a successful first season with the Hawks. Making open shots, attacking available lanes and executing defensive rotations would give Atlanta dependable production. Pairing those contributions with the winning habits he brings could make him an important piece of the Hawks’ next step.
