Dillon Mitchell was known as a high-level defender in college, but the St. John’s senior is aiming to showcase his overall ability in workouts ahead of the 2026 NBA draft.
Mitchell was a Big East All-Defensive team selection, averaging 8.3 points, seven rebounds, three assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 55.9% from the field. He was also voted to the All-Big East third team and the Big East All-Tournament team.
The 6-foot-7 forward has started conducting predraft workouts, with six visits under his belt and more on the horizon. Amid a hectic time, Mitchell wants to prove himself each time he steps on the court, and that starts with taking care of his body.
“I think the main thing is the mindset part, coming in with the right attitude, having energy, being loud (and) having fun with it,” Mitchell said this week after working out with the Golden State Warriors. “Make sure you’re in shape, I think, is another thing. I think the biggest thing is taking care of your body. All of the flights. I was just in Miami for a workout, so having that long flight, getting in at 1 a.m. in San Francisco, and then coming to work out. Taking care of your body is the biggest thing.”
Mitchell was among the prospects who competed in the draft combine earlier this month, averaging 10 points, eight rebounds and six assists in two scrimmage games. He also registered a 38 1/2-inch max vertical jump, one of the top marks among all participants.
The 22-year-old is considered a possible second-round pick this year because of his rebounding, defensive instincts and length, boasting a 6-foot, 10 1/2-inch wingspan. He also dazzled in the open court with his athleticism and activity.
Mitchell wasn’t much of a shooter, though, converting just 11-for-57 from beyond the arc in 144 career games. While he works to become a consistent floor spacer, Mitchell will look to impact games in other ways to earn his minutes at the next level.
“I know right in, if I make it to the next level, I’m not just going to be an amazing 3-point shooter all of a sudden, so I’ve got to figure out ways to get on the court until that continues to progress,” Mitchell said. “That is something I’ve kind of done throughout all four years in college, so just finding ways to get on the court and whatever the coaches need me to do to help the team win.”
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: St. John’s news: Dillon Mitchell talks impacting games in the NBA