NBA’s Davion and Donovan Mitchell: Unrelated Stars with Fascinating Similarities

Miami, FL — Miami Heat point guard Davion Mitchell and Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Donovan Mitchell share more than just a last name, but they are not related. Despite their similarities on the court, both players have confirmed they have no familial connection.

The coincidences between them are striking: Both players wear jersey No. 45, showcase a strong, physical driving style described as “bowling-ball-like,” and were selected as NBA lottery picks — with Donovan being chosen 13th overall in 2017 and Davion 9th overall in 2021. Interestingly, both were born in September, with Donovan celebrating his birthday on September 7, 1996, and Davion on September 5, 1998.

Davion Mitchell has a notable basketball trajectory. He played college basketball at Auburn before transferring to Baylor University, where he led the Bears to victory in the 2021 NCAA Championship, earning the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Award. The Sacramento Kings selected him as the ninth overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. After a season, he was traded to the Toronto Raptors in June 2024 and subsequently acquired by the Miami Heat in February 2025.

Donovan Mitchell’s path to the NBA also reflects significant achievements. Drafted 13th overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2017, he was immediately traded to the Utah Jazz, where he became a cornerstone for the franchise. In 2022, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 2024, the Cavaliers secured him with a three-year, $150.3 million contract extension that extends his tenure in Cleveland through the 2027–28 season, which includes a player option for the final year.

As both players continue to thrive in the league, their individual stories highlight their unique journeys and showcase how they have carved out their own identities within the NBA, despite sharing a last name.

Fans can stay updated with the exciting performances of both Mitchells in the ongoing NBA season, keeping an eye on their competitive gameplay and contributions to their respective teams.