The Indiana Fever are making a bold move to lock in Caitlin Clark along with the 2x All-Star

AND Indiana fever Have some questions to address this season, especially about the future of their big three. Kelsey Mitchell was an integral part of this team and is considered one of the key pieces to its potential success after being named an All-Star in 2024 Wnba season.

The team’s front office decided to give Mitchell the base designation amid uncertainty over his future. This decision became popular in the WNBA, as the Las Vegas Aces reportedly did it with Kelsey Plum, and the Dallas Wings did it with Sato Sabally.

The basic qualifying offer secures exclusive fever negotiation rights with Mitchell. She gets a guaranteed Supermax offer of $249,000 for the 2025 season. If the 2016 WNBA champions decide to part ways with her, they would get something in return or could use it to unlock negotiations for a potential trade for Satou Sabally.

Mitchell played seven years with the Eastern Conference franchise after being selected with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft. Coming off two straight All-Star selections, she was one of the most intriguing names in the offseason, but her potential exit from the Fever may not have gone as smoothly as expected.

The Fever president made a clear statement about his plans for Kelsey Mitchell

After forming a great duo with Caitlin ClarkKelsey Mitchell confirmed that she is one of the most valued players on her team’s roster. Both averaged 19.3 points per game in 2024, and plenty of fans are calling for him to sit out the 2024 season. Team president Kelly Krauskopf has made it clear that keeping Mitchell on the roster is a priority.

“I don’t think there’s another team she could go to that would better leverage her skill set. I mean, she had her best year in the backfield with Caitlin Clark, and I think they’re probably the most dynamic duo,” Krauskopf told Indystar 9 January.

Indiana has already been one of the most interesting teams in the 2024 WNBA season. If they keep Mitchell and add Sato Sabally, their chances of competing in the postseason will be much better. Even Kelsey Plum has been touted as a potential player to join Clark and Co., but there’s still a long way to go before the end of free agency.