The Cleveland Cavaliers have been performing exceptionally well in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to the contributions of their six-time All-Star player.
Donovan Mitchell, affectionately known as “Spida,” has made a significant impact on Cleveland both on and off the court, becoming a beloved figure in the city.
His dedication to the team was further solidified when he signed a contract extension, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the Cavaliers. As a result of his stellar performance and leadership, Mitchell was honored as the Professional Athlete of the Year at the annual Greater Cleveland Sports Awards.
With the Cavaliers on the road, Mitchell was not able to accept the honor in person, with team president Koby Altman doing so on his behalf. However, Mitchell did record an acceptance speech, thanking the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and the fans for their support.
“I want to thank Cleveland for believing in me as much as I believe in them,” Mitchell said. “I’m truly excited to keep on trying to hopefully bring a championship to the city.”
Mitchell began 2024 by helping the Cavs to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, their longest postseason run since going to the NBA Finals in 2018. For years since he was traded to Cleveland, many felt it was a matter of “when,” not “if,” Mitchell would seek to leave for greener pastures, but he instead doubled down with a new three-year, $150.3 million deal.
The results have been remarkably exceeded expectations, as the Cavaliers currently sit at 41-10 under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. Mitchell has done his part by averaging 23.8 points per game with a career-high 39.5% 3-point shooting percentage, earning him a spot as an NBA All-Star starter.
Mitchell is the first Cavaliers player to be named Greater Cleveland’s Professional Athlete of the Year since LeBron James in 2016. The Akron native won the award six times while playing for Cleveland.
