Donovan Mitchell has become a fan favorite in Cleveland since joining the Cavaliers, but he still holds a special place in the hearts of Utah fans.
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Playing his first game in Utah since being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers four months ago, Mitchell received a warm welcome back to Salt Lake City Tuesday night receiving a standing ovation from the Vivint Arena crowd before tip-off.
Donovan Mitchell got a standing ovation from the Utah crowd in his first game back since being traded from the Jazz 👏 pic.twitter.com/PTr9TI9S7V
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 11, 2023
Mitchell, who played his first five seasons in Utah after being selected with the No. 13 overall pick in 2017 was honored with an emotional tribute video, revisiting his tenure with the franchise.
Welcome back, @spidadmitchell. All love 🖤#TakeNote pic.twitter.com/Fwtot6Z7tA
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) January 11, 2023
As they've seen him do many times before, the fans were treated to another special performance from the three-time All-Star, who piled up 46 points six assists, five rebounds, and three steals.
Mitchell's efforts, however, weren't enough to get his new team over the line as a late scoring surge from Jordan Clarkson down the stretch gave the Jazz a 116-114 win.
MORE: Donovan Mitchell already making Jazz regret blockbuster trade
"I was happy to see Donovan get the reception he deserved," Jazz coach Will Hardy said.
"Five great years here. I thought the crowd treated him well."
Mitchell led the Jazz to the playoffs in each of his five seasons with the franchise, appearing in 345 games.
During his tenure in Utah, he averaged 23.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, while shooting 44 percent from the field and 36 percent from the 3-point line.
