Andrew Wiggins has stepped up on the grand stage of the NBA, crafting his own narrative after years of being defined by others in the basketball world.

In Games 4 and 5 of the NBA Finals, Wiggins showcased his versatility with consecutive double-doubles, proving himself alongside established Golden State stars like Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, and Steph Curry. His impactful performances have been instrumental in challenging the formidable Boston Celtics.

This playoff excellence marks Wiggins’ second postseason appearance since being drafted as the top overall pick in 2014. Previously overlooked during his tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves, the 27-year-old seamlessly integrated into the Warriors’ lineup after joining the team in a significant trade deal in February 2020.

For Curry, Wiggins’ evolving intensity and ability to ignite the Warriors’ offense reflect the player Dub Nation and basketball fans across the nation are witnessing on the playoff stage. It’s a manifestation of the potential the Warriors always believed he possessed.

Reflecting on Wiggins’ emergence in the playoffs, Curry emphasized the transformative power of opportunity. Despite the weight of expectations and past narratives surrounding Wiggins as a former top pick, Curry emphasized the value of Wiggins’ scoring prowess, athleticism, and defensive capabilities, which the Warriors saw as crucial assets when they acquired him.

Throughout the playoffs, Andrew Wiggins has been at the center of several memorable moments, from his impactful performance against the Memphis Grizzlies in the semifinals to his highlight-reel dunk over Luka Dončić in the Western Conference finals. Now, in the Finals against the Celtics, Wiggins continues to shine, showcasing his dominance on the court.

In a team where every player plays a crucial role, Wiggins’ versatility allows him to seamlessly integrate into a lineup filled with talented individuals. Whether attacking in the paint or creating opportunities in open space, Wiggins’ skill set perfectly complements the team’s dynamic, contributing to their success on the grandest stage of the playoffs.

“It’s important what everybody gives us … You need Wiggs to shine when he’s attacking the basket or when he’s taking a one-on-one matchup with space to be able to get a good look and keep the flow and the momentum our way,” Curry said. “There’s a reason he fits well with what we do, and has a specific way of impacting the game for us on both ends of the floor, but obviously offensively as well.”

With the Warriors one win away from their fourth NBA title in eight seasons, Curry has enjoyed watching Wiggins thrive.

“… This year, he’s an All-Star starter. He’s shining on the brightest of stages in the playoffs,” Curry said Wednesday. “You can tell how much he’s enjoying it. It’s just amazing to see things working out in his favor in terms of kind of dispelling all the narratives around him and who he is as a basketball player right in front of your eyes.”