INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Fever revealed on Wednesday that they have successfully re-signed free agent guard Kelsey Mitchell, ensuring that Caitlin Clark will have both of her All-Star teammates returning next season.
Details about the contract were not disclosed at the time.
During the previous season, Mitchell enjoyed the best year of her seven-season career while teaming up with Clark in the backcourt. She participated in 40 games, starting 38 of them, and averaged 19.2 points per game, showcasing impressive shooting percentages of 46.8% from the floor and 40.2% from beyond the arc. In addition to her scoring, Mitchell contributed 2.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game while providing guidance to Clark as she transitioned from college to the WNBA. This support was particularly valuable as Clark earned the title of Rookie of the Year and was recognized as The Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year.
Together with Aliyah Boston, Mitchell and Clark formed the core of a revitalized Indiana team that made its first playoff appearance since 2016. Kelly Krauskopf, the president of basketball and business operations for the Fever, expressed her enthusiasm for Mitchell’s return, stating, “Kelsey has been a foundation of our franchise for many years, and we are thrilled to see her return to the Fever. We value Kelsey’s commitment to our organization, and we’re excited to see her build off a phenomenal 2024, her best season yet.” Krauskopf emphasized that Mitchell is one of the premier guards in the league and plays a crucial role in shaping a championship-contending team.
Mitchell was selected as the second overall pick in the 2018 draft after her time at Ohio State. Over her career, she has consistently been a top performer, leading the Fever in scoring every year from 2019-2022 and earning an All-Star nod in 2023. Her presence adds crucial experience and consistency to one of the youngest rosters in the league, a team that frequently attracted capacity crowds at home and on the road. Boston was honored as the Rookie of the Year in 2023, further solidifying the team’s young talent.
With former Fever star Stephanie White returning as the head coach, the continuity among Indiana’s top three players will be beneficial as the team prepares to open its season on May 17 against the Chicago Sky, who will be led by Angel Reese.
“I’m excited that Kelsey is coming back to Fever,” White remarked. “She has been an integral part of this franchise from the moment she was drafted. I have watched her journey from the sideline since her time in college and have always admired her work ethic, approach to the game, and the way she interacts with her teammates. I can’t wait to work with her.”
Throughout her career, Mitchell has demonstrated remarkable durability, participating in 235 out of 240 possible games. She stands second on the Fever’s all-time scoring list, amassing 3,923 points, and ranks second in 3-pointers made with 558, while also holding the fourth spot in career assists with 649.
