With the Caitlin Clark era on hold, the Indiana Fever has turned to a new savior: Kelsey Mitchell. The veteran guard has not only kept the team afloat in Clark’s absence-she’s playing at an MVP level, and the Fever is making sure the league takes notice.
Quadriceps and groin injuries limited Clark’s season to just 13 games. She wasn’t the only absence; guards Sophie Cunningham, Sydney Colson, and Aari McDonald also missed time, leaving head coach Stephanie White with a thin roster for the final stretch of the regular season.
Worse still, even if the Fever secure a playoff berth, Clark has already been declared out for the remainder of the season. In the midst of that setback, Mitchell did more than put up numbers-she carried the team, keeping their postseason hopes alive and vaulting herself into the MVP conversation.
The Fever launches Mitchell’s MVP campaign
With Clark sidelined, Mitchell became the face of the franchise. Averaging 20.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and one steal per game, she has been instrumental in keeping Indiana competitive. Their 22-20 record currently places them seventh in the league, with one foot in the playoffs.
Beyond the stats, Mitchell’s leadership and ability to guide the Fever through adversity have made her case for MVP stronger. This week, the team officially launched her candidacy, releasing a hype video on X (formerly Twitter).
“Kelsey Mitchell is a HOOPER. Her MVP and All-WNBA case keeps getting louder,” the Fever captioned the post, which showcased Mitchell’s best highlights of the season. Fans responded immediately, many voicing support for their star.
Fans are divided on Mitchell’s case
The campaign video drew mixed reactions. Supporters commented: “Kelsey for MVP,” “Let’s go KM, show ’em what you’re made of,” and “Kelsey is the heart and soul of the Fever!! Love me some KM.”
But not everyone agreed. One skeptic wrote: “1st team All-W for play, yes. MVP on a .500 season when CC isn’t on the floor, no.”
As the WNBA prepares to announce its annual awards, it won’t be long before fans learn if the Fever’s efforts paid off-and whether Mitchell can bring home MVP honors.
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