Former Duke forward Mark Mitchell announced Friday that he will be joining Missouri for his junior season. Standing at 6-foot-8, Mitchell, ranked No. 6 in the CBS Sports Transfer Rankings, brings versatility to the Mizzou program, which is seeking a fresh start following an 0-18 SEC campaign.
During his tenure with the Blue Devils, Mitchell started 67 games across two seasons. A highly touted prospect and McDonald's All-American in the Class of 2022, he averaged 11.6 points and six rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 54% from the field during the 2023-24 season.
With Duke recruiting top talent like No. 1 overall prospect Cooper Flagg, Mitchell opted for a change. Missouri, under third-year coach Dennis Gates, is building a formidable roster for the upcoming season. Mitchell's size and versatility make him a notable addition.
Starting as a small forward in his freshman year before transitioning to power forward, Mitchell showcased his adaptability. Although his 3-point shooting percentage dipped from 35.2% to 27.5% in his sophomore season, he remained a key contributor for Duke until a subdued finish in the NCAA Tournament.
Mitchell's arrival underscores Missouri's potential turnaround under Coach Gates. Alongside commitments from transfers like Tony Perkins and Jacob Crews, as well as guard Marques Warrick, Missouri's recruiting efforts are promising. Additionally, the program's freshman class ranks No. 4 nationally.
As Missouri integrates its newcomers, Mitchell and other transfers are expected to elevate the team's performance. Gates aims to recapture the success of his inaugural season when Missouri finished 25-10 and reached the NCAA Tournament's second round.
Mitchell's future prospects look bright, especially if he refines his outside shot. His defensive versatility and proficiency around the rim make him a compelling prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. According to 247Sports director of scouting Adam Finkelstein, Mitchell's impact on both ends of the court is evident, making him a valuable asset for Missouri's upcoming campaign.
