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Former All-Star Mitchell dies at 55

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Times wires
Thursday, June 9, 2011

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Former NBA All-Star Mike Mitchell, who played 10 seasons for the Cavaliers and Spurs, died Thursday after a struggle against cancer. He was 55.

The former Auburn star died in San Antonio after fighting the disease for two years, said his son, Mike Mitchell Jr.

Mr. Mitchell averaged 19.8 points and 5.6 rebounds during his career. He was an All-Star in Cleveland in 1981 and had his winningest years in San Antonio, playing alongside George Gervin and Artis Gilmore.

"We have a great deal of respect and admiration for Mike Mitchell," said Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. "He was a good man who cared deeply about his family and the community of San Antonio."

The Spurs reached the Western Conference final in 1982 and 1983, losing to the Lakers both times.

A first-round pick in 1978, Mr. Mitchell spent 3½ seasons in Cleveland before being traded to the Spurs. He averaged 24.5 points during his one All-Star season, when the Cavaliers were among the league's worst teams.

Mr. Mitchell played more than a decade in Europe after his NBA career ended in 1988.

pacers: Players want interim coach Frank Vogel to get the full-time gig. "I'll be happy if Frank gets picked," center Roy Hibbert said. "I've been with him since I was a rookie, so I hope he gets it.'' Team president Larry Bird has praised Vogel, who appears to be the front-runner.

Pistons: The team reportedly obtained permission from the Bucks to interview assistant Kelvin Sampson for its head coaching job. Sampson has been an assistant to Bucks coach Scott Skiles since May 2008. Sampson's earlier tenure as coach at Indiana University ended in scandal.


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