Last night Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell made NBA history by dropping a whopping 71 points in a huge comeback win over the Chicago Bulls. Not only did the Cavaliers get the win. Donovan Mitchell also put his name in the record books forever as only the seventh player in NBA History to have a 70-point game. Donovan Mitchell also broke LeBron James’ record for most points in a single game as a Cleveland Cavalier.
Mitchell’s 71 points are the most scored in a game since the legendary Kobe Bryant scored 81 against the raptors in 2006. Although Wilt Chamberlain holds the record for most points in a single game at 100. Even though that record may never be broken. Donovan Mitchell is still very happy to have his name on the list next to so many all-time great players.
Donovan Mitchell makes history
“To be there in the record book with guys like Wilt is truly humbling,” said Mitchell, who was acquired from Utah in the offseason. “I always believed I could be one of the best players in the league. I’m speechless and blessed to be in the company of that greatness.’” according to ESPN.com.
After the final seconds ticked away in the Cavs overtime win Mitchell took a few minutes to soak in the MVP chants by the Cleveland fans. Fans who have accepted and praised Mitchell from his first moments as a Cavalier. If this doesn’t fire up this young Cavaliers team we do not know what will.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff was very impressed
Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff had very high praise for Mitchell after the game. J.B. said “We were treated tonight to one of the greatest performances in the history of the game,” Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “Every single play that he made was a play that was necessary. “Donovan has never put himself above the team, so how can you not root for a guy like that? I told everyone else to get out of the way.” again reported by ESPN.com.
The Cleveland Cavaliers currently sit as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland is 2.5 games back from first place as it is still a very tight race. After the performance we just saw from Donovan Mitchell it would not be surprising to see the Cavaliers really hit their stride. As we get closer to the All-Star break the rest of the NBA should be on their toes. Here come the Cavaliers!
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