Davion Mitchell

The 'Off Night' nickname originated from opposing players at Baylor who jokingly told teammates to expect an off-night anytime they faced Mitchell — an accurate warning that followed him to the NBA.

He transferred from Auburn after one season, a move that ultimately changed his career: Baylor's national championship program gave him the national exposure that made him a lottery pick.

Mitchell grew up in a military family — his father served in the U.S. Army at Fort Stewart, Georgia, which he credits with instilling the discipline and mental toughness that defines his defensive approach.

He was one of the oldest rookies in his draft class at 21, having taken a more winding college path — a factor coaches cited as contributing to his professional-level maturity.