The Indiana Fever recently made headlines when they introduced Stephanie White as the team’s new head coach, marking a significant moment in the franchise’s history. Several notable players were present to show their support, including Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Lexie Hull. However, one star player notably absent from the event was two-time All-Star Kelsey Mitchell. Fans were left wondering why the 28-year-old, who plays such a crucial role on the team, wasn’t there to welcome White. What made Mitchell’s absence particularly intriguing was her status as an unrestricted free agent, leading many to speculate about her future with the Fever.
As it turns out, Mitchell’s absence is due to her playing overseas. The star guard is currently in China, where she signed with the Shanxi Flame of the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) for the offseason. This move isn’t out of the ordinary for Mitchell, who has previously played in countries like Israel, Spain, and Egypt during the WNBA’s off-season breaks. Her current stint with the Shanxi Flame follows in the footsteps of other high-profile players, such as Maya Moore and Alyssa Thomas, who have also played for the team.
Mitchell’s time abroad is temporary; her contract with the Shanxi Flame will only last a few months, and she is expected to return to the U.S. ahead of the 2025 WNBA season. The former Ohio State standout recently appeared in a video with her Shanxi Flame teammates, promoting the team and even doing a commercial for a hotel in the Shanxi province where she is currently staying. Despite her overseas commitments, Mitchell has expressed the possibility of returning to the Fever, which has made it clear that securing her for the upcoming season is a top priority.
Her free agency is a critical issue for the Fever, who recognize her importance to the team’s success moving forward. While Mitchell has not yet decided on her future with the franchise, the team’s efforts to re-sign her will likely be a major storyline this offseason. As discussions continue, both Mitchell and the Fever will need to come to an agreement on her contract, which will determine whether she stays in Indiana or moves on to another opportunity.
For now, Mitchell’s absence from the Fever’s event is simply a product of her international commitments. As the 2025 season approaches, her decision will be closely watched by fans and the organization alike. With both Mitchell and the Fever indicating a mutual interest in her return, it’s likely that her next move will be one of the key decisions shaping the team’s future.
