Mark Mitchell

Mark Mitchell exceeded all expectations in his freshman season at Duke. After playing primarily inside in high school, Mitchell was used almost as a combo-forward to start his college career, with a surprise amount of success. He connected on 35% of his attempts from behind the three-point line, and was particularly viable spotting up in the corner.

This year as a sophomore, his offensive role returned to what we expected coming out of high school. The southpaw struggled to space the floor and even saw his free-throw percentage dip from 76 to 62%, but was extremely effective inside of the paint. As a freshman, 52% of his total field goal attempts came at the rim, and he made 68% of them per Pivot Analysis. This year as a sophomore, 60% of his total field goal attempts came at the rim, and he made 79% of them. He was a threat rolling off of ball screens, finishing above the rim, taking less mobile bigs off the dribble for a few bounces in straight lines, as well as a very dangerous offensive rebounder.

His impact on the defensive end of the floor has been a constant. In fact, Duke’s opponents shot under 45% on the year when he was on the court, and over 48% when he was off the floor. He’s strong enough to be physical in the post, but also mobile for his size, so he has the versatility to defend multiple frontcourt positions and play in various ball-screen coverages. He’s also an energy giver who is active and able to cover the court while rarely fouling.

Has a quality physical build for a combo forward. Has long arms, plays with a motor, and is a terrific two foot jumper. Has functional athleticism. Explosive in a crowd. Does most of his damage around the basket as a slasher, post up player and rebounder. Can stretch the defense with three-point range but isn't a strength. Can switch direction on the drive and can attack and finish with either hand as a natural lefty. Solid and versatile defender. Tough on the boards. Not known as a playmaker for others but does have a feel for the game. Fits the mold of the athletic and versatile combo forward.