Mitchell has become one of the most important pieces of Indiana’s roster and one of Clark’s most trusted teammates on the court. Their chemistry has helped give the Fever a dynamic backcourt, making Mitchell’s future with the organization an important storyline as Indiana looks to build around Clark.

With the Fever already thinking about how to improve the roster after their season ended, Clark acknowledged that she understands the organization will have to make important decisions. But when it comes to Mitchell, the superstar guard made her feelings unmistakably clear.

Caitlin Clark wants Kelsey Mitchell back

Caitlin Clark explained that Kelsey Mitchell makes her job easier on the court and that she hopes their partnership can continue throughout her own career. Her comments were particularly meaningful given the uncertainty surrounding Mitchell’s future and the Fever’s broader roster construction.

“She knows how much I love her. I know this organization is going to work our butt off to get her back. We need her. We love her. I hope for the rest of my career I get to play alongside her. That’s how easy she makes my job.”

The statement shows just how highly Clark values Mitchell, both as a teammate and as an offensive weapon. Mitchell’s ability to create shots, stretch the floor and take pressure away from Clark has made her an important part of Indiana’s plans.

Is Kelsey Mitchell a free agent?

Yes. Kelsey Mitchell is an unrestricted free agent after completing her contract with the Indiana Fever, putting one of the WNBA’s most productive guards on the open market.

Her value has never been higher after coming off the best season of her career, when she established herself as one of the league’s premier scoring threats and became a crucial piece of Indiana’s offense.

Mitchell averaged 24.7 points per game while setting new scoring and three-point records with the Fever, making her one of the most coveted players available. Kelsey has also made it clear that she intends to prioritize her own interests and carefully evaluate her options before deciding whether to remain in Indiana or pursue an opportunity with another team.

Key takeaways

• Caitlin Clark expressed her desire for Kelsey Mitchell to remain with the Indiana Fever.
• Kelsey Mitchell enters the offseason as an unrestricted free agent.
• Mitchell averaged 24.7 points per game while setting franchise scoring and three-point records.

Clark said she has not even started conversations with the Fever’s front office or ownership about a potential extension. Instead, she explained that her focus since Indiana’s elimination has been much simpler, saying she has mostly been playing golf while taking some time away from basketball.

“Not saying I’m going to sign it or not signing it. I think it’s just kind of figuring out the way we need to construct our roster. I mean, no matter what, I’m going to be here. I just want to do what’s best for the team. Make sure we have the opportunity to be able to win championships. That’s my main goal. My focus is on winning. I certainly know what I deserve and what I’m worth, but at the same time, sometimes you have to make sacrifices.”

Will Caitlin Clark sign contract extension with Indiana Fever?

For now, there is no answer. Caitlin Clark said she has not begun discussions with the Fever about the contract, meaning there is still plenty of time for the two sides to determine whether an EPIC deal makes sense for both the player and the franchise.

Clark also acknowledged that the new provision represents an important recognition for young players who establish themselves as stars early in their careers. Rather than forcing elite players to wait until the end of their rookie-scale contracts to receive a major increase, the EPIC mechanism creates a path toward a much larger extension earlier.

The Fever will therefore have an important decision to make alongside Clark. The organization can use the new structure to secure one of the league’s biggest young stars while also considering how her contract would affect the rest of the roster. Clark’s comments suggest that team-building will be an important part of the conversation.

For Clark, the message was clear: she knows her value, but winning remains the priority. Her willingness to consider sacrifices in order to give Indiana a stronger chance at championships could become an important factor in the eventual negotiations.

What is an EPIC extension in the WNBA?

EPIC stands for Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract. It is a new provision in the WNBA’s 2026 CBA designed to give elite players on rookie contracts an accelerated path to a major payday.

Under the provision, a player on a rookie-scale contract can renegotiate the final year of that deal as part of a new three-year extension if she earns either an All-WNBA First Team or Second Team selection, or wins MVP during her first three seasons. For an eligible player, the mechanism effectively allows her to reach a maximum-level salary much earlier than under the previous system.

The provision was first used by Aliyah Boston, who became the first player in WNBA history to sign an EPIC agreement with Indiana in April. Boston’s four-year extension through 2029 was worth $6.3 million, with the deal allowing her to move into the league’s new higher salary structure after earning All-WNBA Second Team honors in 2025.

The new CBA dramatically raises WNBA salaries overall. The 2026 salary cap is $7 million, while maximum-contract players can earn $1.4 million this season, with the league projecting the maximum to rise above $2.4 million by 2032. For Clark, the EPIC provision could therefore represent a major financial opportunity, but her comments indicate that the decision will also be closely connected to how the Fever build their championship roster.

Key takeaways

• Caitlin Clark has not yet decided whether she will sign an Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract (EPIC) extension with the Indiana Fever.
• Contract discussions have not officially started between Clark and the Fever front office following the team’s 2026 playoff elimination.
• Clark confirmed she plans to stay in Indiana regardless of the extension outcome, emphasizing that roster construction and championship contention are her main priorities.

The final score of the first game at Michelob ULTRA Arena was 102-85, and now the Fever find themselves with their backs against the wall. The home crowd will need to make its presence felt, while stars like Clark and Sophie Cunningham will have to give it their all.

The WNBA is entering a decisive stage, and the Aces are looking to secure their spot in the next round. Can the Fever stay alive and force a deciding Game 3?

What happens if the Fever defeat the Aces?

The Indiana Fever absolutely need to defeat the Las Vegas Aces to stay alive in the playoffs. Since it is a best-of-three series, losing the opener has put them in a difficult position, and another defeat would mean elimination.

The situation for the Aces is completely different. Their 1-0 lead gives them the opportunity not only to close out the series at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, but also, in case of a loss, to take the series back home and decide it in Game 3, October 1.

What happens if the Fever and Aces tie?

Ties are not an option in this league, so if the score is level at the end of regulation, the game will go into overtime. There, five-minute quarters will be played, and whichever team is ahead at the end will be crowned the winner.

What happens if the Fever lose to the Aces?

If the Fever lose Game 2 against the Aces, their elimination will be confirmed. The dream of potentially reaching the WNBA Finals for the first time in 11 years will be over, while Las Vegas will advance to the next round.

Key takeaways

• Indiana Fever lost 102-85 against the Las Vegas Aces in playoff Game 1.
• A tied score at regulation’s end forces five-minute overtime periods until a winner emerges.
• Losing Game 2 would eliminate Caitlin Clark and Indiana from the postseason.

“They’re good defenders, but at the same time, we made it hard on ourselves too. Our actions were sloppy. I thought what we were running just wasn’t great, and just nobody got an easy or open look,” Clark said once the game concluded.

Before the end of the first half, the difference between the two teams in favor of Las Vegas was 15 points. As the minutes went by, that lead proved too much for the Fever to overcome, as they ultimately lost the game 102-85.

Clark was well defended

Caitlin Clark recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists across 34 minutes on the floor, but she had a tough night largely because the Aces locked her down defensively from the jump. Chelsea Gray took on the main task of picking her up full-court and pressuring her off the bounce, while Las Vegas made a point to blitz her on pick-and-rolls, constantly throwing physical baseline help at her to force the ball out of her hands.

That relentless pressure held her to 6-for-17 shooting from the field (35.3%) and 3-for-10 from deep, forced 6 turnovers, and kept her to just 3 rebounds.

The Fever are on the brink

Following their first setback, the Fever find themselves backed into a corner as they prepare to face Las Vegas Aces again in Game 2 next Tuesday, September 29, where their season is officially on the line.

While the outcome could have been different had they won against the Aces, Indiana must now quickly regroup and adjust to Las Vegas’ aggressive defense to avoid elimination. If the Fever manage to force a decisive Game 3, they will stay alive for a spot in the WNBA Finals; otherwise, their playoff run comes to an early end.

Key takeaways

• The Indiana Fever fell behind by 15 points before losing Game 1 102-85.
• Caitlin Clark recorded 15 points and 10 assists despite facing intense defensive pressure.
• Indiana faces elimination in Game 2 against the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday, September 29.

“It kind of goes into how I want to be remembered. Don’t get me wrong, I want to win championships and I want to be the best player in the world. That’s why I work the way I do and believe the way I do,” Clark acknowledged via The Athletic‘s Brian Hamilton.

“I believe that I can do that and I believe that this team can do that. But at the same time, (I want) to give joy to others. If I end up hanging it up and I never win a championship, hopefully, the impact and the effect I left on people is what I’m remembered for.”

Clark is well on her way

Since stepping onto a WNBA court as the overall top pick for the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark has completely rewritten the record books, snatching 2024 Rookie of the Year honors, making consecutive All-Star teams, and setting single-season league marks for assists while smashing franchise scoring records. But for Clark, all the individual hardware and eye-popping stats take a back seat to the bigger picture—her real mission is inspiring the next generation.

By proving that a relentless work ethic, elite court vision, and deep-range audacity can elevate women’s basketball into a global, prime-time spectacle, she wants young girls and boys everywhere to see that no stage is too big and no dream is off-limits.

The road to the championship

The Indiana Fever are entering the 2026 WNBA Playoffs as the No. 6 seed, setting up a heavyweight first-round clash against the No. 3 seed Las Vegas Aces. Their championship path kicks off with Game 1 in Las Vegas at Michelob ULTRA Arena on Sunday, September 27, followed by Game 2 back at home in Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday, September 29, and an if-necessary Game 3 back in Vegas on Thursday, October 1.

To pull off an underdog title run, Indiana will need to lock down the Aces in the opening round, clear the semifinals starting October 4, and survive a demanding best-of-seven Finals series set to run through late October.

Key takeaways

• Caitlin Clark wants to leave a lasting legacy beyond winning a WNBA championship.
• The former overall top pick claimed the 2024 Rookie of the Year honors.
• Indiana enters the playoffs as the No. 6 seed against Las Vegas.

“{The referee} said I ran into her. I’ve already watched it on the tape, so we’ll let the league decide,” Clark told reporter Holly Rowe once the game concluded. “But it wasn’t intentional or anything, so I’m hoping it’s getting rescinded. Holly, I’ll see you in the New York game. I’ll see you on Tuesday.”

Next Tuesday, August 11, Stephanie White’s team will host the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Will Caitlin Clark ultimately be able to play in the game?

The controversial play

During Fever’s 90-86 victory over Sky, Caitlin Clark picked up her eighth technical foul of the season with just one minute left in the third quarter following a chaotic sequence where she made contact with an official. After losing her footing on a play and falling directly into a referee, officials whistled her for a technical foul due to the physical contact and the ensuing reaction.

What punishment will Clark receive?

If the league confirms the suspension, Clark will not only miss a key game against the Liberty, but will also have to pay a $1,500 fine. A precedent involving Clark herself could offer some hope.

In May 2024, during a game against the Seattle Storm, Clark received a technical foul for arguing with officials. However, after reviewing the video the following day, the WNBA officially rescinded the technical, determining that the call was unwarranted and reducing her season total.

What’s next for the Fever?

Following their matchup against the Chicago Sky, the Indiana Fever return home to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a two-game homestand, beginning with a clash against the New York Liberty on Tuesday, August 11, followed by a matchup against the Dallas Wings on Friday, August 14. After those home games, Indiana takes to the road to face the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena on Sunday, August 16.

“If New York is open to sending Laney-Hamilton elsewhere, Indiana could do a lot worse than expressing interest in her services. For all of the Fever’s success, their defense has been underwhelming, posting a 109.0 defensive rating, the sixth-worst mark in the league this season,” David Suggs from The Sporting News wrote.

He also added: “Laney-Hamilton would represent a solid and inexpensive upgrade for White’s defensive setup.” Will Laney-Hamilton ultimately be the missing piece Stephanie White needs to turn the Fever into a true championship contender?

Indiana’s defensive issues

Despite their high-powered offense, defensive struggles continue to be the primary concern for the Indiana Fever this season. Indiana ranks near the bottom of the WNBA defensively, allowing 89.8 points per game and holding a disappointing 109.5 Defensive Rating.

Opponents have capitalized on their perimeter breakdowns and transition defense, shooting an efficient 46.0% from the field against them. While their explosive scoring keeps them competitive in the playoff race, these recurring defensive lapses make it challenging for the Fever to close out games and contend with the league’s top-tier offenses.

Bueckers’ Wings could be another destination

The Dallas Wings are another team strongly competing for a playoff spot, with Paige Bueckers currently serving as their biggest star. Acquiring Laney-Hamilton would strengthen their defense, although ESPN’s Michael Voepel believes there are other teams that could also land her services.

“Dallas could be interested in adding a veteran who could help what has been a pretty good defensive team that could get better. Toronto and Connecticut might have interest in Laney-Hamilton, too. It might come down to whether New York is seriously looking to make a deal,” he said.

Laney-Hamilton’s numbers this season

In 2026, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton has seen a reduced role with the New York Liberty, averaging 4.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 16.8 minutes per game across 17 appearances. Despite her modest production in a crowded Brooklyn rotation, she remains a highly sought-after target ahead of the WNBA trade deadline due to her proven track record as an elite two-way wing.

Rival franchises view the 2024 champion and former All-Defensive selection as a high-upside veteran who can immediately elevate a contender’s defense, provide playoff poise, and offer versatile scoring depth for the postseason stretch.

WNBA trade deadline draws near

The 2026 WNBA trade deadline is set for Sunday, August 2. After that date, teams are no longer allowed to make trades for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs.

Lingering back discomfort had raised questions about her availability in recent games. However, it did not appear to slow down the No. 22, as she delivered a standout performance against the Seattle Storm with 32 points to lead her team to the 18th victory.

In her recent games, Clark has averaged 30.3 PPG, 8.8 APG, 4.3 3PM, and 2.5 steals and blocks. The former Iowa Hawkeyes star is undoubtedly performing at the level expected of her since arriving in the WNBA.

Clark remains on the edge

Caitlin Clark is a player who often plays with her emotions on the edge, having been penalized with technical fouls on multiple occasions. Although she did not receive her eighth technical foul against the Seattle Storm, if she does so against the Fire during her visit to Portland, she will have to serve a one-game suspension and pay a $1,500 fine.

The Fever aim to return to the Playoffs

Driven by the stellar play of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever are making a fierce push to secure their spot in the playoffs once again. Currently sitting 5th in the overall standings with a strong 18-10 record, Indiana has proven to be one of the most dangerous teams down the stretch.

Clark’s elite playmaking and high-octane scoring have been central to their success, but she isn’t doing it alone—key figures like Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston are also performing at an elite level, giving the Fever a dominant core as they build serious momentum for the postseason.

What’s next for Indiana?

With the goal of staying near the top of the Eastern Conference standings, these are the upcoming games for Stephanie White’s team:

• at Portland Fire, July 31
• at Minnesota Lynx, August 2
• vs Las Vegas Aces, August 6
• at Chicago Sky, August 8
• vs New York Liberty, August 11

Clark burst onto the league’s scene with her elite talent, as well as her trademark fiery competitiveness, often confronting both opponents and referees. At times, however, that intensity has worked against her.

Despite that, the No. 22 made it clear she has no intention of changing the way she plays or who she is. Clark’s message after receiving her seventh technical foul against the Connecticut Sun was unequivocal: “I’m never going to back down.”

Which game could Clark miss if she’s suspended?

After their matchup against the Storm, Stephanie White’s team will continue its West Coast road trip. If Caitlin Clark receives another technical foul and is forced to serve her suspension, she would miss the game against the Portland Fire on Friday, July 31, at the Moda Center.

The Fever need Clark on the court

After the break for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, the season enters a crucial stretch where no team can afford to let victories slip away. This is the case for the Indiana Fever, who, with 17 games remaining, are still in contention in the Eastern Conference.

So far this season, Clark is averaging 21.0 points per game, 7.9 assists, and 3.8 rebounds. She is also shooting 43.5% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range. It is clear that Stephanie White cannot afford to have her off the court for extended periods, which is why Clark might be playing against Storm despite being listed as probable.

What’s next for the Fever?

These are the upcoming games the Fever will have ahead of them as they look to remain in first place in their conference and reach the playoffs in the best possible shape:

• at Seattle Storm (July 28th)
• at Portland Fire (July 31st)
• at Minnesota Lynx (August 2nd)
• vs Las Vegas Aces (August 6th)
• at Chicago Sky (August 8th)

The star guard has been managing a back issue in recent weeks, but she enters the game with a 50-50 chance of playing, putting her in line to suit up if there are no setbacks before tipoff.

She remains the driving force behind Indiana’s offense, averaging 21.0 points and 7.9 assists per game while helping the Fever establish themselves as one of the WNBA‘s top contenders. She also shone during All-Star Weekend.

Why is Caitlin Clark listed on the injury report?

Caitlin Clark is on the Indiana Fever’s injury report because she is managing a back injury and is officially listed as probable for Tuesday’s game against the Seattle Storm. The Fever have not reported any new setbacks.

She has been dealing with the back issue for several weeks. Earlier this season, the injury forced her to miss games, and the Fever have taken a cautious approach to avoid aggravating the problem during the second half of the regular season.

The team has consistently monitored her workload, especially after stretches of heavy minutes. The timing of the injury report is particularly important because Indiana is entering a crucial phase of the season.

The Fever are firmly in the playoff race, and she remains the focal point of the offense, leading the team in scoring and assists while orchestrating nearly every half-court possession. Unless her condition worsens before tipoff, all signs point to the All-Star guard being available against Seattle.

Who could replace Caitlin Clark if she doesn’t play?

If Caitlin Clark is unable to play, veteran guard Sydney Colson is the most likely candidate to step into the starting point guard role, while Sophie Cunningham and Kelsey Mitchell would be expected to take on greater ball-handling responsibilities.

Colson gives the Fever experience and defensive stability, but replacing Clark’s production is a collective effort rather than the responsibility of one player. Cunningham can initiate the offense, while Mitchell becomes the primary scoring option in the backcourt.

When was Caitlin Clark’s last game?

Caitlin Clark’s most recent game came in the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, where she played for Team Spoon on July 26. She finished with 17 points while helping Team Spoon defeat Team Coop 129-122 in Chicago.

Her last regular-season appearance came before the All-Star break, when she continued to play through the lingering back injury. Indiana’s medical staff has closely monitored her condition ever since.

She knocked down several deep three-pointers early in the game and helped energize Team Spoon’s offense, reinforcing expectations that she will continue to play a central role for Indiana as long as she remains healthy during the playoff push.

Obama continued by comparing her sudden rise to his own journey into public life. “You know, I always say one of the things that was luckiest for me was, I didn’t get famous a lot, like 45,” he explained. He drew a personal connection by adding, “I mean, you’re my daughters age, and I have that much, you know, version of nonsense.”

The former president urged the young WNBA star to stay focused on her passion for basketball. “So don’t lose that joy,” Obama advised her during their conversation. “The game’s like the game. And you’re hooper. You always say, and you’re on a nice little runright now.”

Why Obama offered his advice to Clark

Obama offered this guidance because he understands the unique burden of sudden, intense public scrutiny. Having navigated massive global media attention himself, he recognized how outside noise can easily overwhelm a rising star. His goal was to remind Clark to keep her passion intact while tuning out distraction.

As a lifelong basketball fan, Obama also wanted to show personal support to one of the game’s brightest icons. By relating her experience to his own daughters’ generation, he offered a warm, parental perspective on managing rapid fame.

Indiana Fever standings and Clark’s season performance

The Indiana Fever currently hold a 17-10 record, placing them near the top of the Eastern Conference. Clark continues to anchor the team’s offense, averaging roughly 21.0 points, 7.9 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. Her stellar play has kept Indiana firmly in playoff contention as the regular season unfolds.