De La Salle University’s highly touted guard DJ Mitchell is currently in the process of recovering from a back injury.
Mitchell, a 6-foot guard who previously played for NCAA Division I school Hartford, unfortunately suffered a severe back injury during his training in the United States.
Topex Robinson revealed the information in an interview with Tiebreaker Times following the Green Archers’ impressive victory over National University in the 2023 Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup.
According to Robinson, Mitchell’s primary focus is on regaining his health completely before returning to the court.
“Right now, he’s still in the recovery phase, dealing with a rather serious spinal problem, specifically in his back,” disclosed the head tactician.
“He is currently awaiting clearance from his doctors in the US, as the injury he sustained was quite complex and resulted from a freak accident during training.”
This untimely injury comes at a critical moment when Mitchell is eligible to participate in the upcoming UAAP Season 86 and ongoing preseason tournaments. Nevertheless, Robinson remains open to various options for Mitchell, understanding the importance of allowing him sufficient time to heal.
“At the moment, we are keeping our options open. There is a possibility that he might make a prompt return, but there is also the chance that his recovery may take longer,” expressed Robinson.
“For us, we are maintaining flexibility and prioritizing DJ’s health above all else.”
In his last season with Hartford, Mitchell showcased his abilities by averaging 7.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. He was poised to serve as the replacement for Deschon Winston at La Salle.
Robinson shared that Mitchell consistently updates him on his health status, ensuring ongoing communication between them.
Regardless of Mitchell’s decision to continue his basketball journey with La Salle or explore other opportunities, Robinson and the team will warmly embrace him.
“He’s always gonna be welcomed. We still have constant communication with him, he’s updating us with his status pa rin naman with his health status,” he said.
“So, again, he’s a part of this team. I mean, we started with him, and we’re hopeful he’s gonna be back health.”
