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Kelsey Mitchell Shares Heartfelt Moment With Fever Fan on Saturday Night
Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

There’s no doubt the next generation is helping shape the future of the WNBA. That was clear during a touching exchange before Saturday’s matchup between the Indiana Fever and Los Angeles Sparks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Before tip-off, a young Fever fan approached Indiana guard Kelsey Mitchell with a small gift. The two shared a short conversation, a warm hug and posed for a quick photo. Mitchell even signed the fan’s sweatshirt. The moment captured how impactful WNBA players can be as role models for young fans growing up with the game.

The Fever posted the exchange on social media, writing:

“this young fan brought Kelsey Mitchell a gift before tonight’s game against the Sparks.”

Mitchell has been leading the team with 19.3 points per game and has stepped up during a stretch without Caitlin Clark, who’s missed five straight games with a groin injury.

Mitchell dropped 32 points in the June 27 game at Dallas, then followed that with a 25-point effort in a blowout win over Las Vegas. She’s also been an effective playmaker, dishing out 7 assists in Dallas and 6 more against the Aces.

The 29-year-old was the second overall pick by the Fever in the 2018 WNBA Draft. She starred at Ohio State, where she won the Dawn Staley Award and earned first team All-American honors from the Associated Press in 2016.

Since entering the WNBA, Mitchell has been named to the All-Star team twice and made the All-Rookie team in 2018.

Her leadership, consistency and connection with fans continue to make her one of the league’s most respected veterans.

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

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