A Memorable Night at Mizzou — Former Stag Mark Mitchell Mentors Basketball Team
“Former Stag Mark Mitchell closed by reflecting on his time at Bishop Miege, how the older players supported him, and how the Miege Brotherhood still holds strong in his life today. That connection is exactly why he made the time to pour into our team because that’s what Stags do for one another.”
By: Jacob Derritt, Basketball Coach
As our boys basketball team headed to Columbia, Missouri, for the Norm Stewart Classic, they kicked off the trip with an experience they won’t soon forget. One of the things that makes Miege athletics so special is the strength of our community — Stags who continue to look out for, mentor, and encourage the next generation. This week, our players witnessed that tradition firsthand.
Touring the heart of a Division I program
The evening began right at the front entrance of Mizzou Arena, where our team was welcomed by none other than former Stag and current University of Missouri standout, Mark Mitchell. From the moment he greeted them, Mark made it clear how excited he was to show the team what life is like inside a Division I program.
The first stop on the tour was a complete surprise: a visit to Coach Dennis Gates’ office. Coach Gates generously stepped out to speak with our players and coaches, offering insight into what he values when evaluating athletes. He emphasized the emotional and physical qualities that set players apart: consistency, the ability to be coached well, and peer-to-peer accountability. The team even had the chance to snap a photo with Coach Gates and Mark in front of Mizzou’s impressive wall of jerseys honoring former Tigers who made it to the NBA.
From there, Mark took the team through an inside look at the program: the weight room, training room, locker rooms, and the hangout and snack areas where players refuel and unwind. The tour wrapped at the practice facility, giving our guys a glimpse of the day-to-day environment where college athletes put in the work.
Former Stag Mark Mitchell gives the boys basketball team a tour when they arrived at Mizzou Arena for the Norm Stewart Classic. Photos: Jojo Aquino, Class of 2029
Brotherhood that lasts with former Stag Mark Mitchell
Back in the locker room, Mark gathered the team for a meaningful conversation. He shared pieces of his own journey with lessons on taking care of his body, prioritizing rest, and finding balance as a college athlete and student. One message in particular resonated deeply: “Just run your race. Everyone has their own journey, and you must run your own race.”
He closed by reflecting on his time at Bishop Miege, how the older players supported him, and how the Miege Brotherhood still holds strong in his life today. That connection is exactly why he made the time to pour into our team because that’s what Stags do for one another.
What an unforgettable moment for our players and a powerful reminder of what makes the Miege community truly exceptional.