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Kelsey Mitchell’s story shows how far Fever fanbase has come
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- Kelsey Mitchell’s story shows how far Fever fanbase has come
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Caitlin Clark may be the center of attention on the Indiana Fever , but many consider Kelsey Mitchell as the team's heart and soul. Mitchell is the longest tenured player of the Fever , and her loyalty has not gone unnoticed.
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Mitchell will enter her ninth year in Indiana , which drafted her as the second overall pick in 2018. She has seen everything, enduring the failed seasons and celebrating the successful runs. She has played for different coaches and adjusted to countless teammates. Through it all, she stuck with the Fever.
The Athletic's James Boyd said the 30-year-old guard used to park her car outside Gainbridge Fieldhouse and hang out with fans. These days, she would be mobbed.
"Me being outside was just me being a family person, a person person, me being a human, really, because at the time, we didn't really have that many fans. So the fans that did come out and support meant a lot to me. It was just a way of showing appreciation," said Mitchell.
The three-time All-Star said the experience helped her become the player she is today.
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"It sounds cliche, it sounds boring, it's the same song and dance, but this place was empty for a long time when I started my career here. I knew what it's like to connect with the fans on a personal level because we didn't have this much (attention)," added Mitchell.
Mitchell did not reach the playoffs in her first six years with the Fever before finally ending the drought in 2024 following the much-anticipated entry of Clark and the second year of Aliyah Boston .
The Fever have become arguably the most popular team in the WNBA. Their games are a must-see, tickets sell like pancakes, and the fans' appreciation continues to grow.
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There was a time when those seemed impossible. But Mitchell would not have it any other way.
Related: Caitlin Clark effect has Fever on national television for every game
Related: Caitlin Clark's primal scream, media prank show she's ready for Year 3
