Ajay Mitchell reveals Russell Westbrook’s influence on his game

OKLAHOMA CITY — Before Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell named three teammates who made an impact his breakout season, he referred to an old image as he explained Russell Westbrookinfluence on him as a kid. A picture of Mitchell wearing a Kevin Durant Thunder jersey as a kid resurfaced on social media amid Ajayi’s impressive season.

After playing against Westbrook, former Thunder All-Star, Mitchell reacted to the old picture before a reporter asked if Russell was a player Ajayi looked up to as a kid.

“Sure,” Mitchell replied. “That picture, by the way, was crazy. For me, when I got drafted and I saw that picture, I was like, that’s a sign. But, Russ is obviously a great player, the way he competes every night, and the way he did with OKC, I mean, obviously, that was a motto for me. He’s a great player. He’s always able to play against guys so it’s fun.”

“That picture was crazy… when I was drawn and I saw that picture, I was like, that’s a sign.”

Ajay Mitchell on the viral photo of him wearing an OKC jersey and why Russell Westbrook is his role model. pic.twitter.com/k0ke0HRUNG

— NBA (@NBA) November 20, 2025

Mitchell’s 13 points on 4-of-10 shooting and a perfect 5-for-5 free throws led the Thunder’s bench production. Much like Russell Westbrook in his prime, Ajayi also finished with six assists, three rebounds and two steals. Mitchell continues to be a spark plug for coach Mark Daigne. Starting in place of the injured Lou Dort, he has been able to act as a high-level defensive facilitator for the Thunder.

He also flourished as a secondary scorer posting at least four 20+ point performances, including a career-high 26 points in a 141-135 double overtime win against the Indiana Pacers, in one month.

Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell’s hot start is changing teams’ approach

Thunder sophomore guard Ajay Mitchell’s hot start has changed the approach of opposing teams to defend him, according to coach Mark Daigneault. From adding to the scouting report to game planning, Mitchell has changed the way teams defend the Thunder.

After Wednesday’s 113-99 win over the Kings, Mitchell responded to Dayno’s take on how opposing teams defend Mitchell and the Thunder.

“Obviously the first game plan is big and I think it’s really good for me,” Mitchell said. “It gives me a chance to come up with some different ways to impact the game. I’m really happy it’s changing. It gives me a chance to learn and continue to grow as a player.”

The Thunder will go 16-1 when they face the Jazz on Friday.