Utah Jazz shooting guard Donovan Mitchell claims his franchise has offered its full support upon choosing to partake in Team USA's quest for a gold medal in the upcoming FIBA 2019 World Cup.
USA Basketball saw a slew of players — more than half of the original 20 invited to take part in the experience — withdraw their commitment to participate. As Mitchell sees is, he always had the backing of the Jazz to represent his country.
“They were all for it. They were excited for me to get to play,” Mitchell told Aaron Falk of Jazz.com.
“A lot of the guys dropped out. I didn’t know what to expect, but my approach is the same. My biggest thing is to come out here and compete. Be the best defender, the best competitor, whatever I need to do to be on the floor.”
Mitchell planned to honor his commitment to Team USA regardless of who was and wasn't attending the preliminary training camp.
“It’s an honor,” said Mitchell, wearing his blue No. 53 practice jersey. “I was never able to be a part of USA Basketball in high school or college. So for me, it’s a privilege.
“I’ve been playing with [De’Aaron] Fox and Jayson [Tatum] and Jaylen Brown since we were in high school. To be able to play with them on an international level is special. It’s just fun. I’m enjoying this experience.”
Mitchell is heading into his third year in the league and can likely benefit from playing with a star point guard in Kemba Walker with Mike Conley soon to be playing alongside him in the upcoming season.
Follow Us
Subscribe