WELCOME BACK: For the 2025 season, Caitlin Clark’s best teammate promised to return to the Fever.

For the first time in her career, Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell, a vital member of the team, will be an unrestricted free agent. Alongside rookie star Caitlin Clark, Mitchell, who recently signed a three-year extension to her rookie contract, was instrumental in the Fever’s 2024 playoff comeback.

This past season, Mitchell, a two-time All-Star, averaged 19.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, setting career-highs. She also shot 40.2% from three-point range and 46.8% from the field, setting career-high shooting percentages. The Fever made their first postseason participation since 2016 thanks in large part to her contributions.

Fever general manager Amber Cox emphasized the organization’s commitment to retaining Mitchell during an interview with Chloe Peterson of the Indianapolis Star in November.

“Kelsey Mitchell is our top priority heading into free agency,” Cox said. “She, in my mind, is a cornerstone of this franchise. She’s been here for seven seasons, and she has, you know, endured a lot, hasn’t won a lot, so I really want her here to enjoy what is to come. She deserves that.”

In order to keep Kelsey Mitchell for 2025, the Fever consider core designation as a crucial tactic.

Peterson also highlighted that the Fever have several options to ensure Mitchell remains with the team, including the ability to use the core designation. This would give Indiana exclusive negotiating rights with Mitchell in exchange for a one-year super maximum salary, valued at approximately $249,000. Indiana is the only team that can offer Mitchell the supermax this season.

Mitchell’s contract may be extended for an additional two years if the Indiana Fever core her once again in 2026. The Fever have a limited time to finalise their preparations because teams are allowed to make qualifying offers to core-eligible players between January 11 and January 20, per league regulations.

After a breakout season with Clark, one of the league’s best young players, Mitchell’s return might help Indiana gain momentum. Mitchell’s retention guarantees leadership and stability for a team that has battled recently but is now prepared to build on its achievements.

As free agency looms, Kelsey Mitchell’s decision will undoubtedly shape the Fever’s 2025 outlook and determine whether her partnership with Caitlin Clark continues to thrive in Indianapolis.