Mike Mitchell’s jersey to be retired Saturday

AUBURN – Former All-American and NBA All-Star Mike Mitchell will have his No. 30 Auburn jersey retired prior to the Tigers’ home game with Kentucky Saturday night.

Mitchell, who was 55 when he died on June 9, 2011 following a two-year battle with an unusual form of lung cancer, was a second-team All-American at Auburn in 1977-78 and a four-time All-SEC selection, including a first-team pick three years. He is the all-time leading rebounder in Auburn history with 996 rebounds and he left as the Tigers’ all-time leading scorer with 2,123 points.

A first round draft choice by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1978, Mitchell played in the NBA for 10 years from 1978-90 with the Cavaliers and the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 19.8 point and 5.6 rebounds.

“Mike Mitchell was one of the greatest players in Auburn basketball history, so it is only fitting that we recognize his place among our all-time greats,” Auburn Athletics Director Jay Jacobs said in a statement.

Mitchell’s retired jersey will join those of Charles Barkley, Chuck Person, Wesley Person, John Mengelt and Rex Frederick.

Fans are encouraged to wear orange to the game Saturday for the “Orange Out” and Malzahn will address the crowd at halftime.