NCAA Basketball: 20 breakout candidates for 2016-17

Mar 19, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Jalen Adams (2) brings the ball up court against Kansas Jayhawks forward Jamari Traylor (31) in the first half during the second round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 5, 2016; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket as Virginia Cavaliers forward Anthony Gill (13) defends in the first half at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Donovan Mitchell (Louisville)

Donovan Mitchell joined the Louisville Cardinals as a four-star recruit out of Brewster Academy. He was ranked 43rd in ESPN’s top 100 (class of 2015) and had offers from major schools across the country.

Mitchell played behind graduate transfers Damion Lee and Trey Lewis last season, so he didn’t receive more than 19 minutes a night. He averaged just 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists per night, while also shooting 44 percent from the field and 75 percent from the charity strike.

Mitchell is a tremendous defensive player who pressures opponents from end-to-end. He uses his length, energy, athleticism and size to guard numerous positions and switch in pick-and-roll situations.

The Greenwich, CT native will likely continue his prowess on that end of the court, especially given Rick Pitino’s defensive oriented scheme and love for constant pressure that stifles opposing guards.

Where Mitchell is projected to see refinement is on the offensive end. His percentage from beyond the three point line can only go up from here (25 percent last year) and he will have more chances to attack the rim on straight line drives. Mitchell finishes through contact because of his size, strength and leaping ability.

Playing with the ball in his hands more often in 2016-17, will only help Mitchell mold into one of the top guards in the ACC.

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