With the vast global reach of the NBA, the popularity of their superstars is not limited by borders. And it becomes evident whenever the players head to a different nation for any event. Most recently, Donovan Mitchell got a taste of that fandom during his latest trip to Panama as the overwhelming love from his supporters led to safety concerns for the Cavs superstar.

Earlier this evening, Mitchell made an appearance at the Adidas Performance Store Multiplaza in Panama likely to promote his signature shoes and link up with his fans. Sure enough, Spida has old ties with the country as his mother’s side of the family is of Panamanian decent. As expected, fans in Panama were super excited to get a glimpse of their hometown hero and flooded the Adidas store. Overwhelmed by the experience, Mitchell posted the video on his Instagram and wrote, “Panama With Love 🇵🇦 ❤️🕷️”

Despite hundreds of fans filling the multiplex, Mitchell tried his best to give autographs and click pictures with most of them. However, fearing a ruckus, the Cavs superstar’s security escorted him out of the building and to a safer location. Even while heading out, Spida signed a few basketballs and clicked pictures with his young fans, including signing a kid’s jersey. After leaving the event, security stopped the fans from following him outside the building. Clearly, the event demonstrated to Mitchell how much the people of Panama love and support him in his NBA journey.

Donovan Mitchell’s wholesome tribute to Panama

While Mitchell felt the love from his fans in Panama, we were reminded of a time when he returned the gesture. On Panama’s Independence Day, November 28, 2023, Spida honored the occasion by wearing customized “Panama” Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5 PE sneakers to that night’s game against the Hawks. To top it all of, he scored 40 points while wearing those sneakers, leading the Cavs to a blowout victory.

No doubt, his Panamanian supporters will be eagerly anticipating which sneakers he’ll sport when this year’s Independence Day rolls around. Signing a three-year $150.3 million extension last month, Mitchell has solidified his future with the Cavaliers. He is also expected to take a giant leap with the Cavs next season as he finished this one averaging 26.6 points. Mitchell is expected to do even better under the Cavs’ new head coach Kenny Atkinson. So, it would not come as a surprise if Mitchell produces another historic performance to honor Panama like he did last year. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments.

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger