Indiana Fever star Kelsey Mitchell has raised eyebrows with a mysterious social media post, creating new rumors about her WNBA future. On Monday night, the three-time All-Star took to X and posted, “Nobody should ever hold (her) hand unless they really want to hold it,” finishing with, “No favors. No handouts. If you know, you know.”
This message arrives amidst stalled collective bargaining discussions between the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association and just days before Mitchell competes in the offseason 3-on-3 Unrivaled League, which starts its second season on January 5th. Like most WNBA players not on rookie deals, Mitchell will become a free agent if a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is reached. Indiana Fever’s leadership, including GM Amber Cox and head coach Stephanie White, has emphasized that re-signing Mitchell is a top priority this offseason.
Still, some fans interpret Mitchell’s post as a sign that returning to the Fever might be uncertain. Comments range from hope for her comeback to concerns about her potential departure. Fans expressed mixed feelings, with one saying, “She’s been subtweeting for weeks now,” and another expressing worry about whether she’ll leave or come back stronger.
Last season, Mitchell averaged 20.2 points per game, setting a new Fever franchise record. She was also named to the All-WNBA First Team after guiding an injury-ridden Indiana squad to the WNBA semifinals.
Fan Take: Kelsey Mitchell’s cryptic message not only fuels excitement and anxiety around her future but also highlights the broader uncertainty surrounding WNBA negotiations. Her potential move could shake up team dynamics and demonstrates the high stakes involved as players push for better conditions in the league.
