Rick Pitino Explains Why He Hopes Donovan Mitchell Scores ‘75 Points A Game’ Vs. The Knicks

BusinessSportsMoneyRick Pitino Explains Why He Hopes Donovan Mitchell Scores ‘75 Points A Game’ Vs. The KnicksByAdam Zagoria,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I'm a basketball and tennis insiderFollow AuthorMay 18, 2026, 02:04pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates after scoring during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 30, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 134-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)Getty ImagesRick Pitino is a big Donovan Mitchell fan, having coached him at Louisville.But the Hall of Fame St. John’s coach is also a huge Knicks fan.So when Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers meet the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals beginning Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden, Pitino is hoping both do well.“I hope Mitchell scores 75 points a game and the Knicks win” Pitino cracked Monday on a Zoom call with reporters to discuss his new-look St. John’s team.Pitino, a former Knicks coach, previously said the Knicks “have the best team” in the playoffs but pointed out that not having homecourt is a potential disadvantage.With No. 4 Cleveland’s upset of the No. 1 Detroit Pistons in Game 7 Sunday night, the Knicks will have homecourt against Mitchell and the Cavaliers.“Donovan, his basketball acumen is off the charts,” Pitino said. "Last night, although he scored in crunch time, he dominated that basketball game with his passing. His passing was unbelievable, making other people better. So Donovan’s mental acumen is off the charts, he’s one of the smartest young m...