Up until this season, Davion Mitchell’s draft stock was very up in the air. However, this year’s performance for the National Champion Baylor Bears has skyrocketed his name towards the top of draft boards. He made great strides offensively and won the National Defensive Player of the year award. Nicknamed “Off-Night” for his tendency to lock the opposing star down, Mitchell put on a defensive clinic on one of the best defensive teams in recent college history.
What was even more impressive was that he was doing it against fellow top prospects in the BIG 12. Mitchell leaves Baylor with their first national championship with plenty of potential to succeed at the next level. The questions about Mitchell last season mainly revolved around raising his offensive game and succeeding on that end as one of the shortest players on the court. However, his offense is vastly improved, and his defensive skill set is impossible to ignore.
Having a defender able to lock down the opposing point guard is a significant need for every team during this time of high-quality guard play. Mitchell is already 22, and there are limitations that his size will cause which are out of his control. Despite these potential issues, whatever team drafts Mitchell is going to have an incredibly hard-working player willing and able to take on the most challenging defensive assignments
Pro Comp: Jrue Holiday (NOP)
Projected Rd/Pick: Mid-Late Lottery
Prime Destinations: IND, SAS, CHA
OVERALL Grade: B+