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Kelsey Mitchell Fires Blunt Opinion on Caitlin Clark's 'Caliber'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Apr 29, 2025 1:12 PM ET

One of the main priorities of the Indiana Fever in the offseason was to re-sign Kelsey Mitchell.

The talented guard was instrumental in the Fever's return to the playoffs after a seven-year absence, teaming up with Caitlin Clark to form a deadly backcourt. Mitchell averaged career-highs of 19.2 points and 46.8% field goals per game last season and was named an All-Star for the second straight time.

Mitchell, however, made it clear that she was excited to test free agency. She was one of the most coveted players—a tested veteran and a respected leader. But in the end, she agreed to return to Indiana on a one-year deal worth nearly $250,000, according to Spotrac.

She and Clark will once again lead the core of the Fever, along with Aliyah Boston, as they try to build on their laudable stint last year.

The 23-year-old Clark worked on building more muscles in the offseason, which the 29-year-old Mitchell said should only bode well for the reigning Rookie of the Year.

"From a physical standpoint, her strength, her ability to now make plays that people don't think about, for a person of her caliber, it seems small, but it can be the difference between her having 25 or 28 (points) and 10 to 12 assists,” said Mitchell in a report from IndyStar's Chloe Peterson.

Clark was targeted by defenses last season and had to battle against heftier guards. That's why she said getting stronger was one of her "focus points" even before training camp.

Mitchell said playing with Clark was a major reason for her decision to re-sign with the Fever, describing the former Iowa standout as "one of greatest people in the world."

The Fever will start their new season against the Chicago Sky on May 17.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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