Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell was born on September 7, 1996, in Elmsford, New York. He grew up in the nearby town of Greenwich, Connecticut. His father, Donovan Mitchell Sr., was a former Minor League Baseball player and later became a director of player relations for the New York Mets. Donovan was influenced by his father's sports background and developed a passion for basketball early in his life.

Donovan Mitchell was selected by the Denver Nuggets as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft. However, he was traded the same night to the Utah Jazz. Mitchell's draft rights were acquired by the Jazz in exchange for the 24th pick (Tyler Lydon) and veteran forward Trey Lyles. Mitchell quickly impressed coaches and fans with his athleticism and scoring ability.

On February 17, 2018, Donovan Mitchell participated in and won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest during the NBA All-Star Weekend. Mitchell dazzled the crowd in Los Angeles with a series of impressive dunks, including one where he jumped over multiple people and a tribute to Vince Carter by wearing a retro Toronto Raptors jersey. His performance solidified his status as one of the rising stars of the NBA.

Donovan Mitchell was a key member of the USA Basketball Men's National Team during the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup held in China. Although the team did not win a medal, Mitchell was one of the standout performers, leading the team in scoring during the tournament. His international experience added to his growing reputation as an elite guard in the NBA and showcased his skills on a global stage.

On February 24, 2020, Donovan Mitchell set a new personal best by scoring 46 points in a game against the New Orleans Pelicans. His explosive performance included several key shots and demonstrated his ability to take over a game offensively. Despite the loss, Mitchell's scoring explosion stood out as one of the high points of the season and highlighted his potential to be one of the league's top scorers.

On March 11, 2020, Donovan Mitchell tested positive for COVID-19, shortly after his teammate Rudy Gobert was diagnosed. This was just as the pandemic was becoming widespread in the United States, and the NBA suspended the 2019-2020 season indefinitely. Mitchell's diagnosis was significant as it highlighted the seriousness of the pandemic and its impact on professional sports and public health.

Donovan Mitchell signed a five-year, $163 million contract extension with the Utah Jazz on November 23, 2020. This contract included a 30 percent escalator clause that could turn the guaranteed $163 million into $195 million if he reached certain incentives. This commitment demonstrated the Utah Jazz's confidence in Mitchell as their franchise player and provided him with long-term financial security.

On May 23, 2021, in the first round of the NBA playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies, Donovan Mitchell achieved a playoff career high by scoring 45 points. Despite dealing with an ankle injury, Mitchell's leadership and scoring prowess helped the Utah Jazz secure a victory in the game. His performance solidified his reputation as a clutch performer who could deliver in high-stakes situations.

On September 1, 2022, Donovan Mitchell was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a blockbuster deal. The Utah Jazz received multiple players and several first-round draft picks in exchange for Mitchell. The trade marked the end of Mitchell's successful stint in Utah and the beginning of a new chapter in Cleveland. Fans and analysts speculated on how this move would impact both teams' futures.

On October 24, 2023, Donovan Mitchell played in the season-opening game for the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Brooklyn Nets. Mitchell showcased his skills and leadership on the court, contributing significantly to the team's performance. This game marked the start of his second season with the Cavaliers, and expectations were high for both him and the team to make a deep playoff run.