As it stands, there are 11 former Kansas basketball players on an NBA roster. Of that group, nine are key pieces to their respective teams and occasionally or consistently appear in the starting five. The Jayhawks have produced many accomplished players at the next level.
One of KU's most talented players in the Bill Self era is Andrew Wiggins, easily the school's second-best active player behind his ex-teammate Joel Embiid. The No. 1 selection of the 2014 draft began his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves before heading to the Golden State Warriors five years ago. After a successful tenure in the Bay Area, Wiggins is headed East with the recent news of a Jimmy Butler trade:
BREAKING: The Miami Heat are finalizing a deal to send Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors for Andrew Wiggins, Dennis Schroder, Kyle Anderson and a protected first-round pick, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/82mWHKCnVM
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 6, 2025
Andrew Wiggins dealt to Miami Heat in Jimmy Butler trade
Butler had been on the trade block for quite some time, dating back to December last year. Heat President Pat Riley commented publicly and stated they would not be trading him, but three team suspensions for team misconduct culminated in a massive exchange between four teams. Wiggins was sent to Miami along with Kyle Anderson, PJ Tucker, and a protected 2025 first-round pick.
"Maple Jordan" has started 43 games this season, averaging 17.6 points and 4.6 rebounds. While his best statistical years are behind him, Wiggins only turns 30 later this month and still has plenty to offer on both ends of the floor.
Wiggins is not the only former Jayhawk involved in a blockbuster trade over the past week. Markieff Morris was involved in the earth-shattering trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks which sent superstar guard Luka Doncic to LA. While he hardly headlined the deal, Morris is in his 14th NBA season and previously won the 2020 championship during his first stint with the Lakers.
Between earning an All-Star starter nod and helping the Warriors capture an NBA Finals in 2022, Wiggins transformed into a fantastic tertiary option with Golden State. He should play an important role with his new squad, as Miami currently holds the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference.