In the 2024 WNBA season, the Indiana Fever experienced a significant resurgence, reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2016. This success was largely attributed to the dynamic backcourt duo of veteran guard Kelsey Mitchell and rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. Both players averaged 19.2 points per game, showcasing their offensive prowess and chemistry on the court.
As the season concluded, attention turned to Mitchell’s impending free agency. Selected second overall by the Fever in the 2018 WNBA Draft, Mitchell has been a cornerstone for the franchise, amassing impressive career statistics over seven seasons. In an interview with the Indiana Star’s Chloe Peterson, Mitchell discussed her future, emphasizing the need to prioritize her personal and professional goals:
“I think everything for me is so fresh that I don’t know what I need and what I’m going to do,” Mitchell said. “Obviously, I’ve always had a home in Indy, so it could potentially be a home for me again, but I think right now…I got to do what’s best for me. That’s no hanging my hat on one team or another, but I think it’s specifically for me. I got to be selfish about that process.”
This statement underscored Mitchell’s commitment to making a decision that aligns with her aspirations, while acknowledging her deep connection to Indiana.
The partnership between Mitchell and Clark has been instrumental in the Fever’s success. Clark, the No. 1 draft pick out of Iowa, faced initial challenges transitioning to the professional level. However, with support from teammates like Mitchell, she adapted quickly, breaking the WNBA’s single-season rookie assist record and significantly improving her assist-to-turnover ratio. Mitchell highlighted the mutual adjustments required:
“You have to adjust. She had to transition as a pro, and we had to give her what she needs, be a resource and fill those gaps in. She’s one of those players where her (basketball) IQ is going to take us a lot of places, so you’ve got to figure out where you fit in, knowing how to read and adjust off of her.”
This adaptability fostered a strong on-court synergy, contributing to the team’s improved performance.
Amidst rumors about her potential departure, Mitchell’s interactions with Clark have been telling. In a congratulatory message following Clark’s Rookie of the Year award, Mitchell stated:
“You’ve done a lot of things that not a lot of people can do. From me to you, I’m always going to be a fan. I’m always gonna be in your corner. I’m always gonna be in your backcourt.”
This sentiment suggests a desire to continue their partnership, reinforcing the bond they’ve developed.
Recognizing Mitchell’s value, the Fever made a strategic move by designating her as a core player, ensuring exclusive negotiating rights and offering her a supermax salary. This decision reflects the organization’s commitment to retaining its key players and building upon the momentum generated in the 2024 season.
As the Fever prepare for the upcoming season, the focus remains on nurturing the Mitchell-Clark duo. Their combined talents and leadership are pivotal to the team’s aspirations. Mitchell’s decision to stay, influenced by her partnership with Clark, underscores her dedication to the team’s mission. Together, they aim to elevate the Fever to new heights in the WNBA.
