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The Utah Jazz had a brief stay in the win column before losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder for the second time in a matter of days. Fortunately, fans were treated to another stellar performance from rookie phenom Donovan Mitchell.
After missing the prior two games with a toe injury, Mitchell came back strong to drop 29 points on an efficient 12-of-16 shooting against the Thunder's star-studded trio. Upon discussing the reason for his improved play in the fourth quarters, Mitchell credited it the amount of free time he has on his hands now, according to Andy Larsen of KSL:
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“It's easier to watch film when you don't have 5 classes to study for.”
While Mitchell's comments may have just been playful banter, there is plenty of truth to what he is saying. The NCAA has received plenty of criticism from those who feel the organization is exploiting its athletes due to the long hours of practice combined with the rigors of a full class schedule.
Mitchell had spent two years as a former Louisville product before going pro. That said, it may have taken him some time to adjust to being a student-athlete after making a tremendous jump from his freshmen to his sophomore year. Following his selection as a member of the First Team All-ACC, he promptly entered the 2017 NBA Draft and has now proven to be one of its biggest steals.
