The Indiana Fever secured a major boost on Wednesday as Kelsey Mitchell agreed to return for her eighth season. The All-Star guard, who had a career-best year in 2024, will continue to play alongside Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, forming a strong core for the franchise’s future.
Mitchell, a former Ohio State Buckeyes star, thrived in her first season with Clark, averaging 19.2 points per game on 46.8% shooting, along with 2.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists. Her outstanding performance helped lead the Fever to their first playoff appearance in years.
Mitchell Commits to Fever, Praises Clark
Following the announcement, Fever President of Basketball and Business Operations Kelly Krauskopf expressed excitement about retaining Mitchell, highlighting her value to the team’s long-term success.
“Kelsey has been a foundation of our franchise for many years, and we are thrilled to see her return to the Fever,” Krauskopf stated. “We value Kelsey’s commitment to our organization, and we’re excited to see her build off a phenomenal 2024, her best season yet. She is one of the best guards in this league and is a cornerstone to building a championship roster.”
Mitchell also shared her reasoning for staying in Indianapolis, revealing that Clark played a role in her decision.
“I met one of the greatest people in the world, Caitlin Clark, who just ran the basketball world,” Mitchell said. “So I think together, we hope to make you guys proud. We hope to make you guys feel like you’re a part of our success and our journey. I’m here, let’s do this.”
Clark, who was the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, made an immediate impact in the league. The former Iowa Hawkeyes standout quickly became the face of women’s basketball, drawing sellout crowds and setting multiple records in her rookie season.
Her performances earned her a spot on the All-WNBA First Team, solidifying her as one of the league’s brightest stars.
With the trio of Clark, Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston in place, the Fever have the foundation to compete for championships in the coming years. Under the leadership of new head coach Stephanie White, Indiana will look to build on their promising 2024 season and establish themselves as a force in the WNBA.
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