Mitchell, Gobert Proud To Represent Utah At All-Star Game

CHICAGO, Illinois – Utah Jazz stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert took center stage at the NBA All-Star Game Practice. Though both players were drafted to play for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s team during Sunday night’s game, both players are excited to represent the state of Utah and the organization they play for.

“It means a lot, I think Utah is a great state, those guys they have embraced me and my family since I got here,” Gobert said, “The journey, there’s been some ups and downs but it’s been a great journey, I am excited to represent all these guys, and the great fans because they really have our backs. I think they’re going to have fun watching us represent the team.”

Gobert and Mitchell were selected as reserves by NBA coaches to represent the Western Conference as the Jazz opened the season with a 36-18 record.

At ⁦@NBAAllStar⁩ practice, @UtahJazz center Rudy Gobert discusses what it means to represent the people of Utah. #TakeNote #NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/k2hw4OpmMg

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) February 15, 2020

“To represent the state of Utah is such a blessing,” Mitchell said,” When I first got drafted here, All-Star was a thought, but it wasn’t like ‘third-year I’ll be here,’ so for me to just go out there and put on for Utah is truly special. We’re overlooked in a lot of different things, so for us to be out here and be able to make a name for ourselves I think it’s pretty cool. I hope we can do this for many years to come.

Though the two have had separate paths to the NBA and the All-Star game, Mitchell said he was proud to represent the Jazz alongside Gobert.

“It’s big, for myself and Rudy,” Mitchell said, “We’ve come a long way. He’s been waiting for this for a while so I am really happy for Rudy.”

Mitchell was one of the first All-Stars to the podium to speak to the media but was sure to greet each fellow Star as they entered the media section. Mitchell was particularly excited to see his Jazz teammate enter the arena.

Donovan Mitchell was star struck when @UtahJazz teammate Rudy Gobert walked into the arena. #TakeNote #NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/p14cGNennQ

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) February 15, 2020

While the two players have been excited to represent the Jazz during Sunday’s game, there is some question about how well the loose style of basketball fits Gobert’s defensive style of game. Despite the concern, Mitchell hopes players from Team LeBron challenge Gobert at the rim.

“I hope somebody tries to dunk on him because it’s just not going to happen, “Mitchell said of his teammate, “If someone tries it, he’ll be there. I think that will be the best part.”

Gobert seemed less concerned about the style of play and more dedicated to the impact he can have in his home country.

“I just want to have a good time,” Gobert said, “Hopefully inspire all the kids from France and from everywhere in the world. And, try to get a win, might as well.”

Mitchell and Gobert will practice with Team Giannis before the All-Star Saturday Night events, including the Three-Point Contest, Skills Challenge, and the Dunk Contest.

#NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/AwcmC3SFcY

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) February 15, 2020