Emotional Week for Donovan Mitchell
This week has brought a whirlwind of emotions for Donovan Mitchell, the Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard. With his selection to the NBA All-Star Game for the seventh consecutive year, Mitchell is gearing up for a busy schedule. He will also make time to support his fiancée, singer Coco Jones, as she performs “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Super Bowl 60 this Sunday.
Trade Shakes Up the Team
However, the mood shifted dramatically on Wednesday. In a surprising move, the Cavaliers traded Darius Garland to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for superstar James Harden.
“There’s just a lot happening right now,”
Mitchell remarked following the Cavaliers’ commanding 124-91 win over the Clippers.
Upcoming Games and Personal Life
Cleveland is currently amidst their longest road trip of the season and faces off against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday. Following that game, Mitchell has plans to travel to Santa Clara, California, where he will cheer on Jones at the Super Bowl before heading back to Denver for a Monday matchup against the Nuggets.
The couple announced their engagement last July after two years of dating. Reflecting on last year when the Cavaliers were eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals by the Indiana Pacers, Mitchell mentioned needing a break and hinted at a concert tour. Meanwhile, Jones embarked on her own musical journey last summer after releasing her debut album.
Mitchell’s Performance and Team Dynamics
Mitchell expressed pride in her achievements, stating,
“I’m excited for her. It’s amazing to witness her success. It’s new for me to just enjoy it as a fan too, and it’s special to see her shine on such a grand stage.”
Now in his ninth NBA season, Mitchell ranks sixth in the league with an impressive average of 28.8 points per game, achieving a career high, and leads with 178 three-pointers made this season. The acquisition of Harden allows Mitchell to return to his primary position at shooting guard, which he briefly abandoned while filling in when Garland was injured earlier this season.
Harden, who is set to play his first game with the Cavaliers on Saturday, has been averaging 25.4 points per game, reflecting a strong year reminiscent of his top performances back in the 2019-20 season.
“With James on our roster, I believe our potential increases. He brings a different dynamic, but we must be prepared for the adjustments such trades often bring,”
Mitchell commented.
Looking Ahead
Cavaliers president of basketball operations, Koby Altman, acknowledged that integrating Harden into the lineup will take some time.
“Adapting our strategies to fit both James and Donovan will be essential for our effectiveness, particularly as we look ahead to the playoff season.”
Coco Jones also shared her excitement about performing at the Super Bowl during a Thursday press conference, noting the high-profile nature of the event. Her father, Mike Jones, was a member of the Tennessee Titans during their Super Bowl 34 appearance.
“This is one of the most-watched events ever,”
she remarked.
“Perhaps my wedding will come close!”
Mitchell remains hopeful that this won’t be Jones’ sole Super Bowl performance, expressing his pride and ambition for her future.
“We’re fortunate to be close enough to celebrate this moment together. It’s truly a blessing,”
he said, looking forward to what lies ahead for them both.
