Few teams in the NBA can boast a 17-1 record at this point in the regular season. The Cleveland Cavaliers stand alone with that impressive mark, and a significant part of their success stems from Donovan Mitchellās standout play. However, Mitchell acknowledges he hasnāt done it alone.
Following the Cavaliersā 122-108 victory over the Toronto Raptors, he singled out Ty Jerome for his pivotal role in the teamās remarkable streak. With a talented roster that includes Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, the team has displayed impressive chemistry under head coach Kenny Atkinson. The cohesion among players has been key to Clevelandās dominance, and Atkinsonās leadership has been instrumental in maximizing the teamās potential.
In the postgame press conference, Mitchell expressed admiration for Jeromeās contributions this season. Now in his second year with the Cavaliers, the 27-year-old guard has become a reliable piece in Clevelandās rotation.
āIt shows a level of hard work and preparation and dedication to the game. He comes in, heās on time, heās preparing the right way, heās taking care of his body, and when you go through an injury like that, it can sometimes take away the joy, the love. It can kind of push you mentally,ā Mitchell said, highlighting Jeromeās resilience and commitment.
Ty Jerome #10 of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket against Seth Curry #30 of the Brooklyn Nets
Mitchell also shared a lighthearted story about Jeromeās upbringing, referencing his early basketball experiences. āHis dad used to cuss us out at 8 years old. I tell people all the time I donāt like positive reinforcement. I think itās just PTSD from my AAU days with his pops. I think thatās probably the funniest part we talk about all the time.ā
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Atkinsonās perspective on Jerome
Mitchell isnāt the only one impressed by Jeromeās performance. Head coach Kenny Atkinson also commended the guardās impact on the team. Atkinson reflected on Jeromeās early days with the Cavaliers and the traits that stood out immediately.
āMaybe the most surprising thing is heās getting in the lane and getting to the rim. You wouldnāt think heās the speediest guy, but he finds a way to get there, uses his size and his IQ,ā Atkinson said, praising Jeromeās savvy play and ability to contribute in key moments.
Breaking down Jeromeās season stats
Jeromeās performance this season has been his best since entering the NBA in 2019. Through 18 games, heās averaging 19 minutes per contestāthe highest mark of his career so far.
Jerome has tallied 226 points, averaging 12.6 per game, while shooting efficiently across the board. Heās converted 83 of 139 field-goal attempts (59.7%), 31 of 57 from three-point range (54.4%), and 29 of 33 free throws (87.9%). Additionally, Jerome has grabbed 38 rebounds, dished out 68 assists, and recorded just 22 turnoversāshowing a balanced and disciplined approach to his game.
