Freshman guard 'humbles' himself to learn in first season
Making an impact for the Central Michigan men's basketball program has been something PJ Mitchell has dreamed about since 10th grade.
His first visit to CMU's campus was in 2016. He felt like he was already a part of the family. Mitchell committed to the Chippewas as just a sophomore at Detroit Edson High School.
Mitchell won two district titles and two regional championships while being selected to the Detroit News All-State First Team in 2015-16 and 2016-17. He nearly averaged a double-double as a senior with 16.7 points and 7.3 assists per game.
"I was the guy since my freshman year," Mitchell said. "I had my best year as a senior and was ready to take it to the next level."
Now, Mitchell had to learn how to embrace a role that he isn't used to.
Senior guard Shawn Roundtree and transfer guard Larry Austin Jr. are expected to start as a two point guard set. Junior guard Matty Smith and transfer Dallas Morgan are next in line to back up the starters. Mitchell realized he might not be very high on the depth chart.
Mitchell's finding ways to learn from the veterans in front of him and adopt a backup roll.
"I have to humble myself and realize I need to learn because things change at this level," Mitchell said. "But when my time is called, I'll be ready to step up to the stage."
Regardless of the drill in practice, Mitchell wants to finish first. While it might not be game action, he wants to win those battles.
Roundtree is a transfer from multiple schools and didn't get the chance to start at the Division I level until last season. He knows what it is like to wait and get your turn to play — similar to what Mitchell is now experiencing.
"PJ has extraordinary skill man," Roundtree said. "Sometimes there are some upperclassmen who will get the best of you but you just have to battle back. He's been resilient so far."
Head coach Keno Davis agreed with Roundtree. Mitchell's had the ability to get to the basket and shoot the ball since an early age.
"He's getting the chance to learn behind two fifth year seniors which may not seem like the best experience but might be the best thing for him," Davis said. "We know what he can be in four years, right now he's getting the chance to play against that."
Mitchell's never been a backup to anyone, but taking on a new challenge is something he's ready for.
"Next year is going to be my year," Mitchell said.
