 "The biggest adjustment is just the raised level of play, better athletes, better players," Mitchell said.
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In addition to all the usual adaptations a young adult must make, Leilani Mitchell, a rookie with the New York Liberty, also had to get accustomed to a new city and a heightened level of basketball. The former Utah Ute was traded to the Liberty earlier this season after being chosen by Phoenix with the 25th pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft.
At a recent Liberty game, Mitchell discussed life as a pro in a new city with WNBA.com's Lauren Brill.
WNBA.com: What is the biggest adjustment you had to make in playing at the professional level?
Mitchell: The biggest adjustment is just the raised level of play, better athletes, better players.
WNBA.com: Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer once compared you to Chris Paul because of your speed, size and vision. Do you think that comparison is accurate?
Mitchell: Chris Paul is a great player, so to be mentioned with him obviously is a great honor but I am nowhere near that type of play. But he is someone that I admire and look up to.
WNBA.com: You're from Washington state and have played in both Idaho and Utah. How does it feel to be in the Big Apple?
Mitchell: It is a little overwhelming. I don’t really like to drive. I like to ride the train in. There are a lot of people, but it is fun. There is always something to do.
WNBA.com: At just 5-5, you have a height disadvantage in the WNBA, but growing up you played basketball with your five brothers. How did they help you to prepare for playing at this level?
Mitchell: It helped give me that competitive drive and got me interested in sports from the beginning.
WNBA.com: In college, your coach at Utah, Elaine Elliot, ran plays to provide you with a lot of offensive opportunities. How does your role compare here in New York?
Mitchell: It is a little different. Still as a point guard, my responsibility is to run the team. But I am probably not looked to to score as much. But if I am open, they still want me to shoot it. So that is pretty similar.
WNBA.com: What is the best advice you have received since joining the Liberty?
Mitchell: To relax, have fun and to not think about the game when I am playing.
WNBA.com: What do you think is your greatest strength and what are you working to improve upon?
Mitchell: I need to improve on my defense. My quickness and getting to the rim is my greatest strength.
WNBA.com: Thus far this season who has been your toughest opponent?
Mitchell: I have gotten to play against a lot of good players. Sue Bird and Ticha Penicheiro were really good. Those are probably the best so far.
WNBA.com: So far, what is your favorite arena to play in?
Mitchell: Madison Square Garden!
WNBA.com: Growing up, who were your favorite male and female basketball players?
Mitchell: My favorite male athlete was Michael Jordan. I didn’t really have a female athlete that I really looked up to.
WNBA.com: Did you watch the NBA Finals? If so, who were you rooting for?
Mitchell: Well I was watching the playoffs and I wanted the Hornets to win, but they lost. So, after that I didn’t watch it too much.
WNBA.com: Do you know yet if you will you play overseas in the offseason?
Mitchell: Yes, I am going to go to France.
WNBA.com: What is your favorite thing about being a pro?
Mitchell: Getting paid to play basketball.