Dillon Mitchell Signs Two-Way Contract with Celtics, Ending College Return Hopes

The Boston Celtics have officially signed Dillon Mitchell to a two-way contract, putting an end to any hopes of his return to college basketball with St. John's. Mitchell, selected 40th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, will forfeit his remaining amateur eligibility as a result of this agreement, though specific contract terms have not been disclosed.

Mitchell's signing follows the trend of former St. John's players entering the professional arena, as Zuby Ejiofor also secured a four-year rookie-scale contract with the Atlanta Hawks shortly after being drafted. Meanwhile, Bryce Hopkins, drafted by the Denver Nuggets, has yet to finalize a deal but is ineligible to return to college due to the expiration of his five-year eligibility clock.

During the NBA Summer League, Mitchell showcased his potential by averaging 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.7 steals per game, while shooting 47.2% from the field. His performance also included a notable increase in three-point shooting, hitting 3-of-8 attempts over three games.

Under the terms of his two-way contract, Mitchell will earn $678,882 and is limited to participating in up to 50 NBA games. This arrangement suggests he will primarily split his time between the Celtics and their G-League affiliate, the Maine Celtics.

In his lone season with St. John's, Mitchell averaged 8.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, earning spots on the All-Big East Third Team and the Big East All-Defensive Team. With his departure, St. John's is now focused on filling a key roster spot left by Syracuse transfer Donnie Freeman, with reports indicating interest in All-SEC forward Keyshawn Hall, who had an impressive season at Auburn.