Podcast Summary: New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce Episode Featuring Donovan Mitchell

Release Date: April 18, 2025
Episode Title: Donovan Mitchell on The Cavs #1 Seed, Career “MJ Moment,” Attending LeBron’s "Decision" & More | EP 135

Introduction and Guest Overview

In Episode 135 of New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce, hosts Jason and Travis Kelce welcome Donovan Mitchell, the six-time NBA All-Star and starting shooting guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, to discuss his stellar performance, the Cavaliers' journey to the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference, and pivotal moments in his career. The episode delves deep into Mitchell's experiences both on and off the court, offering listeners exclusive insights into his life within the NBA.

Cleveland Cavaliers’ Season and Playoff Prospects

Mitchell begins by expressing his love for Cleveland, emphasizing both the city's culture and the support from its fans. "I love it, man. The people are great. City's great. I love the cold, too," Mitchell shares (03:18). He highlights the team's evolution over the past seasons, crediting key players like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley—whom he commends as "all NBA phenomenal"—Ty Jerome, Dre, and Jared Allen for their contributions. "We accomplished so much... We got DG back to form, Evan Mobley's been all NBA phenomenal," he notes (05:08).

The hosts and Mitchell discuss the Cavaliers securing the top seed for the first time since their 2016 championship run. Mitchell underscores the importance of team chemistry and growth, stating, "This year you guys have been absolutely on fire... you coming back was a huge, huge part of that, brother" (03:43). They express excitement about the upcoming playoffs, with Travis eagerly anticipating the atmosphere at home games: "I can't wait to get back for a game in these playoffs, man" (06:53).

Play-In Tournament Format and Its Impact

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the NBA's play-in tournament format. Mitchell provides a nuanced perspective, appreciating the increased intensity and viewing excitement it brings. "From a viewing standpoint, from like an intensity standpoint... it's phenomenal," he explains (08:06). However, he voices a slight preference for knowing playoff matchups in advance, wishing the Cavaliers could have certainty about their first-round opponent throughout the week. "But as a 1 and 2 seed, I wish we knew all week who we were playing" (08:57).

Multisport Background and Athletic Versatility

Mitchell reveals his athletic versatility, recounting his time as a baseball and basketball player in college before fully committing to basketball. He discusses his decision to focus on basketball after earning respect and inspiration from basketball legends. Reflecting on his past, Mitchell shares, "The one thing I couldn't do was I couldn't play football... I couldn't take a hit from" (12:39), highlighting his preference and aptitude for basketball over football due to the physical demands of the latter.

Career Milestones: The 71-Point Game and an “MJ Moment”

One of the episode's highlights is Mitchell recounting his career-best performance, where he scored 71 points against the Chicago Bulls. "It didn't feel crazy until overtime... I had 16 points at halftime," Mitchell recounts (17:40). He credits his coach and draws a parallel to Michael Jordan's competitive spirit, referring to his performance as his "MJ moment." "He brought up MJ in the sense of, like, just the way he competed," Mitchell explains (18:34). This monumental game not only broke records but also solidified his reputation as one of the league's elite players.

Dunk Contests and NBA's Entertainment Value

The conversation shifts to the state of NBA dunk contests. Mitchell is candid about the challenges players face in replicating the creativity seen on social media from professional dunkers. "It's hard for us to replicate that because they're professional dunkers," he notes (47:05). The hosts and Mitchell brainstorm ideas to rejuvenate the contest, suggesting formats like team competitions or integrating international elements to increase engagement and excitement.

Cleveland's Culture, Attractions, and Community Spirit

Mitchell shares his initial impressions of Cleveland, praising the city's vibrant community and hidden gems beyond the downtown construction areas. "There's so much more here than I thought, to be honest," he states (31:56). He highlights local favorites like Zanzibar near the arena and Playhouse Square, expressing enthusiasm for participating in community events and attending high school games to foster local support. His appreciation for Cleveland's genuine fan love is palpable: "You feel the genuine love... it's something that really drove me to stay" (35:49).

Potential Return of the WNBA to Cleveland

The episode touches on the possibility of reintroducing a WNBA team to Cleveland. Mitchell expresses strong support, believing that the city's atmosphere and community spirit make it an ideal location for a women's basketball team. "I think Cleveland is the perfect place for it... Just like I said, everything I just said about the community," he affirms (38:00).

Blind Rankings: Throwback NBA Jerseys

In a fun segment, the trio engages in blind rankings of throwback NBA jerseys, evaluating iconic designs from the 90s and earlier eras. Donovan votes 10 on the Orlando Magic's Penny Hardaway and Shaquille O'Neal era jerseys for their classic appeal (38:59). The hosts and Mitchell debate the aesthetics of various jerseys, including those of the Utah Jazz, Detroit Pistons, and Philadelphia Sixers, blending nostalgia with personal preferences. "I love the red, white, and blue. So I'm gonna go five," Mitchell comments on the Philadelphia Sixers' Iverson era jersey (41:25).

"We Gotta Ask" Segment: Playful and Thought-Provoking Questions

The episode concludes with the "We Gotta Ask" segment, where Donovan answers quirky questions:

1. Number of Holes in a Basketball Hoop: While Travis and Jason debate, Donovan leans toward the idea of it being one hole, though he ultimately votes two (46:38).

2. Dunking on Teammates: Mitchell humorously contemplates dunking on teammates like J.A. (Jay Allen) and Evan Mobley during practice, blending competitive spirit with camaraderie (53:17).

3. NBA and NFL Crossover Debate: The hosts engage Donovan in discussing the feasibility of multi-sport athletes transitioning between the NBA and NFL. Donovan believes it's more plausible for certain defensive positions in football but acknowledges the immense dedication required (54:41).

4. Hardest Arena to Play In: Donovan candidly identifies the Dallas arena as challenging due to lighting issues affecting his depth perception, sharing, "Every time, it's like. It's like. It plays tricks on me in that arena" (57:25).

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Travis and Jason express their gratitude to Donovan for his candid insights and enthusiasm. They reinforce their support for the Cavaliers' playoff run, with final words of encouragement: "Bring us home another championship, baby. Go Cavs" (64:30).

Notable Quotes:

• Donovan Mitchell on loving Cleveland: "I love it, man. The people are great. City's great. I love the cold, too." (03:18)

• On team accomplishments: "We accomplished so much... We got DG back to form, Evan Mobley's been all NBA phenomenal." (05:08)

• Regarding the play-in format: "From a viewing standpoint, from like an intensity standpoint... it's phenomenal." (08:06)

• On his 71-point game: "It didn't feel crazy until overtime... I had 16 points at halftime." (17:40)

• Thoughts on dunk contests: "It's hard for us to replicate that because they're professional dunkers." (47:05)

• On Cleveland's community: "You feel the genuine love... it's something that really drove me to stay." (35:49)

• Supporting WNBA return: "I think Cleveland is the perfect place for it... Just like I said, everything I just said about the community." (38:00)

• In "We Gotta Ask": "I'm the two guy for sure." on basketball hoop holes (46:38)

This episode of New Heights offers a comprehensive look into Donovan Mitchell's career, his bond with Cleveland, and his perspectives on broader NBA topics. Listeners gain valuable insights into the life of an elite NBA player navigating both personal milestones and team dynamics amidst a vibrant sports culture.