When the Indiana Fever drafted Caitlin Clark in 2024, many saw a ‘clash of egos’ in the backcourt with experienced star Kelsey Mitchell carrying the side for many years. But the duo quickly formed great chemistry, becoming the core of the Fever’s future plans.
While the 2024 rookie set many records in her first season, Mitchell joined Clark for a rare franchise feat during an impressive run in the 2025 season. In a recent interview with Sue Bird, KM opened up about how she respected Clark, which helped them form a bond.
Kelsey Mitchell Points Out Caitlin Clark’s Special Trait She Respects
The Indiana Fever have had multiple top picks since 2018 and added Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, and Clark as their picks, which are now the core of the franchise. While their recent addition is one of the biggest names from women’s basketball, Mitchell highlighted one trait that made the 23-year-old the most likable player in the locker room.
In an interview with Sue Bird, Mitchell answered the question about the different adjustments she and the franchise had to make to accommodate Clark. But at the same time, she praised the rookie’s character.
“When something that big or someone that big who has that much impact comes into something, there are a lot of adjustments that the people have to make. The biggest part I respect about Caitlin (Clark) is that she was never bigger than the program. She wasn’t trying to take over,” Mitchell said.
People can keep pushing their weirdo narratives but it’s not going to work my backcourt is locked in 🤞🏼🫶🏼-
— Krys🫶🏼 (@GaterGoggles) October 24, 2025
Kelsey Mitchell on Caitlin Clark 🥹 pic.twitter.com/DX08UusYdE
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Sue Bird simplified Mitchell’s point, mentioning that CC came into the organization understanding her role and fitting into a team, making sure the fit and chemistry in the roster. Agreeing to her explanation, Mitchell added that the Clark never tried to be bigger than anybody in the locker room.
The guard also mentioned that the playmaker’s style of play complemented her and Aliyah Boston, and they all loved basketball the same way. Earlier in the season, Mitchell also gave Caitlin Clark her flowers for transforming the Indiana Fever into a playoff contender.
Caitlin Clark Shower Love On Kelsey Mitchell For 2025 Season Performance
While KM showed respect for the rookie, the former Iowa star also showed love and admiration for her backcourt partner on multiple occasions. As CC missed multiple games in the 2025 season due to injury, the former Ohio State guard once again carried the side to the playoffs.
The Rookie of the Year winner lauded every game and performance from Mitchell; she even showed respect for her veteran, responding to her post. Mitchell shared an emotional post after the conclusion of the season, remembering her father’s impact on the game.
Understanding the depth of the message, Caitlin Clark replied with a proud feeling and wrote, “So lucky to be your teammate!!! Proud of you Kels.”
While Clark opened up on an uncertain offseason with many departures expected from the Fever roster, the franchise is prioritizing the 29-year-old guard’s signing in the offseason.