Willie Mitchell (basketball) facts for kids
| Forward | |
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 6, 1975 Detroit, Michigan |
| Nationality | American |
| High school | Pershing (Detroit, Michigan) |
| Listed height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Career information | |
| College |
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| NBA Draft | 1999 / Undrafted |
| Pro career | 1999–2008 |
| Career highlights and awards | |
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Willie Dion Mitchell III was born on May 6, 1975. He is an American former professional basketball player. In high school, he was named Mr. Basketball of Michigan in 1994. He played college basketball at the University of Michigan and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. After college, he became a professional player. He played in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and in different basketball leagues around the world. He was also a passenger in a car accident that led to a big investigation at the University of Michigan.
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High School Basketball Star
Willie Mitchell is 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters) tall. He won the 1994 Mr. Basketball of Michigan award. He led Detroit Pershing High School to two state championships. These wins happened in 1992 and 1993. His team also finished second in 1994.
Amazing Team Record
During his time at Pershing High, his team had a great record. They won 92 games and lost only 11. In his final year, Willie averaged 21.9 points and 11 rebounds per game.
Top Player Awards
Even though his team lost in the 1994 state championships, Willie received many honors. He was chosen as a McDonald's All-American player. He also played in the Magic's Roundball Classic. The Detroit News newspaper named him All-State in his sophomore, junior, and senior years.
College Basketball Journey
Willie Mitchell joined the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team in 1994. He was part of a highly-rated group of new players. This group was sometimes called "Fab Five II" or "Frosh Five." Other talented players in this group included Maurice Taylor and Maceo Baston.
Injury and Investigation
During his second year, the 1995–1996 season, Willie had a knee injury. He missed several games from December 1995 to January 1996. After he returned to playing, he was in a car accident in February 1996. This accident led to a large investigation involving the University of Michigan basketball program. Willie was a passenger in the car.
Transferring Teams
Even though he was involved in the accident, Willie was not among the players who faced serious questions. After the 1996 season, Willie Mitchell decided to transfer. He moved to the UAB Blazers men's basketball team.
Professional Career
Willie Mitchell started his professional basketball career in 1999. The Yakama Sun Kings drafted him in the CBA draft. He played one season for the Sun Kings.
Playing Around the World
After his time with the Sun Kings, Willie played basketball in other countries. He played professionally in Europe and Asia until 2006. In 2006, he played in the American Basketball Association.
Later Career Teams
In 2007, Willie returned to the CBA. He played for the Minot Skyrockets. His most recent team was the Quad City Riverhawks in 2008. He also played for teams like the Hong Kong Flying Dragons in China and Neptūnas Klaipėda in Lithuania. He was also connected with the San Diego Stingrays and the Detroit Wheels.
