Named All-American at Providence College in 1959 and 60, Wilkens led his team to their first NIT appearance in 1959 and to the NIT finals in 1960. At the time of his graduation, Wilkens was the second highest scorer in the team's history with 1,193 points. His number 14 jersey was retired by the school in 1996. Drafted by the St. Louis Hawks in 1960, Wilkens became a ten time NBA All-Star and was named NBA All-Star Game MVP in 1971.

Resigned from his position as Vice Chairman of the Seattle SuperSonics in July, 2007.