Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
National Basketball Association Rookie of the Year contender Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz has nothing against the formation of so-called super teams in the NBA.
Speaking at a press conference highlighting his first visit to Manila for footwear giant adidas, Mitchell said it should instead serve as a challenge.
He also made a recruitment pitch for incoming free agent Paul George of the Oklahoma City Thunder to join him in Salt Lake City.
In the aftermath of Golden State’s third title in four years, Mitchell said the rest of the league should just “work harder” to catch up with the Warriors who have four All-Stars in their roster.
“We just have to find ways to get better,” said Mitchell, a mid first round pick before emerging one of the top ROY choices after a sensational season that saw him average 20.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 79 regular season games.
The reigning slam dunk king also said he’d love to have George in Utah.
“I’ll make (my pitch) Paul George right now,” said Mitchell. “We want to win, we’re not selfish. If he comes in, it’s gonna make life a lot easier on the offensive end. He’s also a great defender.”
Asked if he’d also want LeBron James to join him, the 21-year-old Mitchell replied: “Would I want to [play with him]? Who wouldn’t?” he asked. “But if I had a choice on playing [with] him or beating him, I’d rather beat him.”