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Kelsey Mitchell Responds to Caitlin Clark Farewell Amid Fever Free Agency Tension

Caitlin Clark concluded her 2026 season with the Indiana Fever on Thursday, sharing a message on Instagram that reflected on a year of recovery and high-level play. Clark, who missed the majority of the 2025 season due to injuries, described the campaign as “a season of being healthy and doing what I love.” The post quickly drew a supportive response from teammate Kelsey Mitchell, who replied with the phrase “da one” accompanied by flower and heart emojis.

The social media interaction underscores the bond between two players who formed one of the most productive backcourts in the WNBA this year. Clark finished the season with a career-high average of 22.3 points per game and 8.3 assists. Her return to form followed a difficult 2025 campaign, and her presence was a catalyst for an Indiana team that set a franchise record with 28 wins during the regular season.

Kelsey Mitchell was equally vital to the team’s success. An All-WNBA First Team honoree alongside Clark, Mitchell averaged 24.7 points per game while shooting 50.9% from the field. Her efficiency and scoring volume placed her third in the MVP race, solidifying her status as one of the league’s elite offensive threats. Despite these individual achievements and a historic regular season, the Fever’s playoff journey was brief, ending in the opening round against Las Vegas.

As the offseason begins, the future of the Indiana backcourt remains a primary concern for the organization. Mitchell is now an unrestricted free agent, having completed her contract with the Fever. As a four-time WNBA All-Star coming off one of her best statistical seasons, she is expected to be one of the most sought-after players on the open market.

Clark has made her preference clear regarding Mitchell’s future, expressing a strong desire to continue their partnership in Indiana. “She knows how much I love her,” Clark stated. “There’s nobody I’d want to share a backcourt with other than her.”

However, Mitchell has indicated that her approach to the upcoming negotiations will be focused on her own professional goals and personal considerations. She recently remarked that she plans to be “selfish” as she evaluates her options during the free agency period. With no restrictions on her movement, Mitchell has the opportunity to explore offers from across the league, leaving the Indiana front office and fans waiting to see if the record-breaking duo will reunite for the 2027 season.

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