TONY MITCHELL
6-8, 235 lbs.
School: North Texas
Class: Sophomore
Selected with the 37th overall pick by Detroit Pistons
STRENGTHS: Our 2012 Sun Belt Player of the Year, Mitchell is a powerful, athletic freak with an NBA-ready body and a monstrous wingspan. Though he’s only 6-8, Mitchell plays like a seven-footer because he has a 7-3 wingspan. He’s a terrific defender and shot blocker, averaging nearly 3 swats per game. His athleticism could allow him to play as a 3 at the next level, even though he’s got what it takes to play inside. Much of his value could come on the defensive end, but he’s got some skills that could make him an effective option in the post or on the wing.
WEAKNESSES: He could use some work on his post game, and needs to improve his ball handling if he’s going to play the 3 on offense in the NBA. He’s not a great player off the drive and can be awkward at times with the ball in his hands on the wing. Because of that, he may be better suited at the 4, although he’s more unique at small forward.
BOTTOM LINE: Tony Mitchell has a chance to develop into a really good player if given time. He was the Sun Belt Player of the Year as a freshman last season, and his game continues to improve every time out. He could be a tremendous find on the defensive end, and even though he’s somewhat raw on offense, he’s got unlimited potential. He won’t have an immediate impact on a team, but could develop into a nice player in the league in a few years.