From Nova Scotia to The NBA? Lindell Wigginton Making an Instant Impact at Iowa State

Lindell Wigginton has been named Big 12 Newcomer of the Week after averaging 22.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists as the Cyclones went 3-0 last week. Photo Courtesy: Cyclones Basketball

Written by: Max Feldman

Lindell Wigginton came into Aimes, Iowa as the second highest rated recruit in Iowa State’s history. If Wigginton’s play continues he has a chance to become the first player from Nova Scotia to play in the National Basketball Association.

Iowa State lost it’s two biggest contributors to graduation last season, but Lindell has stepped in proving to be a go to scorer for the Cyclones.

Through only eight games, Wigginton is averaging 16 points, four rebounds, and almost three assists. He’s also shooting a blistering 47% from three point range. In his previous three games the Canadian National Team member is putting up 24 points a game, with a staggering 54% from three.

Former Iowa State guard and current Salt Lake City Stars guard, Naz Mitrou-Long said, “Special, man. Very, very special. When he’s making his 3-ball like he did in the second half – he can’t be stopped.”(Des Moines Register) after watching Wigginton’s 24 point outburst against Iowa.

The beginning of Lindell Wigginton’s college career is starting to catch the attention of NBA scouts. NBADraft.net has Wigginton listed as the 27th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Lindell was ranked as the 24th overall player in the class of 2017 by Rivals.com, and was a member of the U19 Canadian Men’s team that claimed the gold medal in the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2017. He has been one of the faces of optimism for Canadian basketball fans for the last few years. His pure scoring talent combined with his athleticism and playmaking ability have been something defenders have struggled to contain.

After leaving Nova Scotia for Mouth of Wilson, Virginia and Oak Hill Academy, Linny’s game blossomed. With a good frame, and impressive work ethic, Lindell grew from a 160 pound, scrawny shooter into a 6 foot 2, 190 pound combo guard.

Oak Hill, a historic high school basketball program, was led by Wigginton during his junior and senior seasons averaging 16 points each season.

Wigginton’s unforeseen journey from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia to NCAA Division 1 basketball has been full of prosperity, but you may just need to keep watching to see Lindell reach his full potential. Lindell next plays Alcorn State on Sunday, December 9th.

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