Hardy has emerged as the frontrunner and should be closing in on a five-year deal shortly. Photo: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer.

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah. — The graduating class of 2021 at the University of Utah will get to hear All-Star basketball player Donovan Mitchell deliver the Commencement speech at graduation.

University President Ruth Watkins said in a statement, “Donovan Mitchell is a favorite of basketball fans and our community because of his commitment to excellence, education and social justice. He shows by example what one person can do to influence the lives of countless others and how to step forward to advocate for change with grace and goodwill.”

Last year the U of U’s commencement was entirely virtual.

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President of the university’s student association Ephraim Kum said to the Associated Press (AP) he’s “incredibly excited for students to hear from Donovan Mitchell. He has long been one of my favorite players, not just because of his abilities as an athlete, but also for his inspiring leadership, his genuine commitment to our community, and his willingness to speak up on social justice issues.”

On May 5-8, students attending school in person will have socially distanced graduation ceremonies. These ceremonies will be held in Rice-Eccles Stadium and in the Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre and also will be live-streamed for family and friends to watch. The virtual Commencement in which Mitchell will speak takes place on May 6. The Commencement will be pre-taped (not live) and can be viewed anytime.

#TakeNote — we have an all-star speaker lined up for this year’s commencement. @spidadmitchell will be delivering the Class of 2021 address! 🎓🏀 #UtahGrad21

📰 https://t.co/k9sBsMbZeG pic.twitter.com/wjldl1u4Ai
— University of Utah (@UUtah) March 30, 2021