Thunder Notes: Mitchell, New Arena, Two-Way Spot

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell missed 46 games during his 2024/25 rookie season due to toe surgery but views the experience positively despite the extended absence. Mitchell stated, "I think it was a great learning experience for me," calling it his first major injury and emphasizing how it helped him learn to manage injury and play in the NBA, making it a valuable first year that has him excited for the future.

Mitchell, selected with the No. 38 pick out of UC Santa Barbara last summer, played in 36 healthy contests during the season. In those games, the 6'5" shooting guard averaged 6.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 0.7 steals per game across 16.6 minutes per game.

Head coach Mark Daigneault demonstrated confidence in the 23-year-old Mitchell's potential. After being sidelined for over three months, Mitchell was deployed in spot minutes during the Thunder's postseason run, suiting up for 12 playoff contests as a deep-bench option.

Mitchell highlighted the value of his playoff experience, saying, "My first year being able to compete in the playoffs and learn what the playoffs really is was awesome for me." He believes this exposure will help him become a better player by understanding where he can impact games, specifically mentioning his ability to be aggressive defensively (like picking up full court) and to make simple, effective plays offensively.