Texas Basketball: 5 things to watch for vs. Incarnate Word
By Shane Black
3. How has Dillon Mitchell’s offensive game developed?
When Dillon Mitchell announced his intention to remove his name from the 2023 NBA Draft and return to Texas, he knew he would have to spend the next 12 months developing his offensive game to realize his dream of becoming an NBA player.
We saw glimpses of those improvements in Texas’ Orange and White game as well as in their scrimmage against St. Edward’s, but on Monday, it starts to count.
How far has Mitchell extended his range? Last season, he had zero three-point attempts. Expect that number to be closer to one per game this season.
How has his ability to asses defenses evolved? Last season, Mitchell was pigeonholed into a rim-running/clean-up-the-scraps role. It was what the team needed him to do, and he did it well. This season, he will be relied on to initiate offense out of the short corner and high post, similar to what we saw from Timmy Allen in the previous two seasons.
Mitchell must show he can knock down a 12-15 footer, put the ball on the deck and get to the rim, and pass out of double-teams when needed.
Coach Terry and this Texas basketball team need Mitchell to step up this season. If he plays at an All-Big 12 level, this team has the chance to do something special.