Spida NBA: How Donovan Mitchell Became the League's Most Exciting Young Star

I remember watching Donovan Mitchell’s first NBA game like it was yesterday—the explosive dunks, the fearless drives, the kind of electric energy that makes you sit up and say, “This kid is different.” Fast forward a few seasons, and he’s not just different; he’s become the NBA’s most exciting young star, a player who consistently delivers jaw-dropping performances and elevates his team when it matters most. His journey reminds me a lot of what underdogs in international sports sometimes achieve—like Alas Pilipinas, the Philippine volleyball team, which is on the verge of making history in the VTV Cup. Should Alas Pilipinas pull off a massive semifinals upset and dethrone the Russians on Saturday, it would mark the Philippines’ first-ever trip to the VTV Cup finals in the competition's 21-year history. That kind of breakthrough moment—defying expectations and rewriting narratives—is exactly what Mitchell has been doing since he entered the league.

When the Utah Jazz drafted Mitchell 13th overall in 2017, I’ll admit, I didn’t see him becoming a superstar. Sure, he had athleticism, but so do plenty of rookies. What set him apart, in my view, was his mindset. He played with a chip on his shoulder, almost as if he was out to prove that every team that passed on him had made a mistake. In his debut season, he averaged over 20 points per game—a rare feat for a rookie—and led the Jazz to a playoff series win. I’ve followed basketball for years, and it’s not often you see a first-year player take over games in the postseason. Mitchell did just that, dropping 38 points in a close-out game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was a statement performance, one that announced his arrival as a force to be reckoned with.

Over the next few seasons, Mitchell’s game evolved in ways that few could have predicted. His scoring average climbed steadily, hitting 26.4 points per game by the 2020-21 season, and he developed a reputation as a clutch performer. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him sink game-winning shots or take over in the fourth quarter. But what really stands out to me is his ability to adapt. Early on, critics pointed to his three-point shooting as a weakness; he shot around 34% from deep as a rookie. Fast forward to last season, and he’s improved that to nearly 39%, all while maintaining his explosive drives to the basket. It’s that kind of dedication to improvement that separates good players from great ones.

Mitchell’s impact isn’t just statistical, though. He brings an excitement to the game that’s hard to quantify. Whether it’s his highlight-reel dunks or his charismatic presence off the court, he’s become a fan favorite and a marketing dream for the NBA. I’ve spoken to casual viewers who barely follow basketball but know who “Spida” is—a nickname he earned for his long arms and knack for stealing the ball. That crossover appeal is something the league thrives on, and Mitchell embodies it perfectly. He’s not just playing; he’s performing, and in doing so, he’s helping grow the game globally.

Now, let’s tie this back to that Alas Pilipinas reference. Underdog stories resonate because they’re about overcoming odds, and Mitchell’s career is full of them. Think about the 2020 NBA Bubble, where he dropped 57 points in a first-round playoff game—the third-highest scoring performance in playoff history—only to fall short against the Denver Nuggets. It was a heartbreaking loss, but it fueled him. Similarly, Alas Pilipinas, if they upset Russia, would be achieving something historic against a powerhouse opponent. Both scenarios highlight how preparation, belief, and a touch of audacity can lead to unforgettable moments. In Mitchell’s case, those moments have cemented his status as a rising icon.

Of course, no player is without flaws. Mitchell’s defense, for instance, has been a point of contention. Early in his career, he sometimes struggled to stay in front of quicker guards, and advanced metrics like defensive win shares placed him in the middle of the pack among shooting guards. But here’s the thing—I’ve noticed he’s worked on it. Last season, he averaged 1.2 steals per game, up from 0.8 in his rookie year, and he’s become more disciplined in team defensive schemes. It’s a work in progress, but then again, so is every aspect of his game. That relentless drive to get better is why I believe he’s on track for an MVP-caliber career.

Looking ahead, Mitchell’s potential seems limitless. At just 26 years old, he’s already a three-time All-Star and has led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a playoff resurgence. Some analysts project he could average 30 points per game within the next two seasons, especially if he continues to refine his playmaking—he dished out 5.5 assists per game last year, a career high. Personally, I’d love to see him develop into more of a floor general, but even as a score-first guard, he’s already among the elite. His combination of speed, skill, and swagger makes every game must-watch TV.

In conclusion, Donovan Mitchell’s rise to stardom is a testament to hard work and resilience. Much like underdog teams aiming for historic breakthroughs—be it Alas Pilipinas in volleyball or a Cinderella story in the NBA playoffs—he’s proven that with talent and tenacity, anything is possible. As a fan, I’m excited to see where his career goes next. Whether he’s dropping 50-point games or inspiring the next generation, one thing’s for sure: Spida NBA is here to stay, and the league is better for it.