Kelsey Mitchell, one of the Indiana Fever‘s top performers, experienced a terrifying health scare during Game 5 that forced her out of action and left fans and teammates deeply concerned.
In a post on social media, Mitchell explained she had suffered rhabdomyolysis – a serious muscle condition that caused her body to shut down temporarily.
She collapsed during the third quarter, describing the experience as overwhelming and frightening.
“Because my muscles stopped producing positive blood to my bloodstream, my body locked up from a physical standpoint and from there fatigue and cramping settled in,” Mitchell wrote. “It sucked. I panicked because I began to think the worse when I felt like I couldn’t move my legs. It was an out of body experience for me and I thank God for covering me at a time like that.”
Players shield Mitchell as medical teams respond
The moment unfolded when Mitchell slowed down after a play near the basket, then reached out to referee Isaac Barnett for help. He steadied her before easing her to the floor.
Teammates Brianna Turner and Lexie Hull quickly came to her side, while both Fever and Aces players created a human barrier using towels to block the view from cameras and the crowd.
Trainers from both teams treated her courtside. Although a stretcher was brought out, Mitchell declined it and was instead assisted off the floor. She was later transported to a Las Vegas hospital, where she received IV treatment and was released that same evening.
Rhabdomyolysis is a rare condition linked to overexertion, injury, or dehydration, and can lead to complications like muscle breakdown and kidney issues. Recovery is usually possible, though weakness can linger.
Despite the scare, Mitchell remains positive. “Today on Oct. 1, I am walking and moving at a slow pace, but I will be fine very soon,” she said. “In other words, I played literally til my wheels fell off, lmao.”
The MVP candidate averaged 22.6 points across the playoffs and played in every game this season, even through injuries – a testament to her resilience.
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