Chauncey Wiggins has emerged as one of Clemson basketball’s brightest stars in what many are calling his breakout season. Once a role player finding his rhythm, Wiggins has stepped into a major role for the Tigers, showcasing his versatility on the wing and proving that he’s more than ready for the spotlight. His growth on the court is undeniable—and a large part of that development can be attributed to the steady guidance of head coach Brad Brownell and, more specifically, assistant coach Billy Donlon Dixon, who has worked closely with Wiggins to hone his game.
Wiggins, a 6-foot-10 forward with a guard’s skill set, has become a matchup nightmare for opponents. His ability to stretch the floor with consistent outside shooting, combined with improved ball-handling and defensive awareness, has made him a key piece in Clemson’s game plan. Averaging double-digit points and contributing significantly in rebounds and blocks, Wiggins is beginning to live up to the potential he showed as a highly-touted high school recruit.
A major factor behind his transformation has been Dixon’s emphasis on refining the mental and physical aspects of Wiggins’ game. Known for his player development skills, Dixon has pushed Wiggins to become more aggressive and confident with the ball, encouraging him to assert himself in both transition play and half-court sets. Dixon’s tailored drills and film sessions have helped Wiggins understand spacing, improve his off-ball movement, and enhance his defensive positioning—making him more than just an offensive threat.
Wiggins himself has acknowledged the impact of Dixon’s mentorship, crediting him with helping him see the game differently and trust his instincts. That confidence has translated into increased minutes, leadership on the floor, and a strong presence in high-pressure moments. In several key ACC matchups, Wiggins has delivered clutch performances, often leading fast breaks, hitting timely threes, and making smart decisions that swing momentum in Clemson’s favor.
The Tigers’ success this season is in part due to Wiggins stepping into a larger role, and his rise symbolizes the strength of Clemson’s player development system. As Clemson eyes a deep run in the postseason, all eyes will be on Wiggins to maintain his upward trajectory. If he continues to perform at this level, there’s little doubt he could become one of the premier wings in college basketball—and Dixon’s fingerprints will be all over that success.
