In a heartfelt and revealing new interview, Kelsey Mitchell, one of the WNBA’s brightest stars, opened up about a crucial turning point in her career—one that she credits to Caitlin Clark, her college basketball rival, and the incredible impact Clark had on her time in Indiana.

Mitchell, the star guard for the Indiana Fever, has had her share of highs and lows throughout her career. But in this candid conversation, she shared a deeply personal story about how the relationship with Caitlin Clark—whom she faced off with in some of college basketball’s most exciting matchups—played a pivotal role in not only saving her career but also reigniting her passion for the game.

Let’s break down Mitchell’s emotional journey and how Clark’s influence helped transform her career in Indiana.

Kelsey Mitchell’s Struggles in the WNBA

For years, Kelsey Mitchell has been a standout talent, known for her scoring ability, speed, and leadership. The former Ohio State star entered the WNBA with high expectations, joining the Indiana Fever as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 draft. However, the transition to the professional level wasn’t as seamless as Mitchell had hoped. While her scoring was undeniable, the team struggled to find consistent success, and Mitchell faced the challenges of playing on a rebuilding Fever squad.

In an industry where success often leads to pressure, Mitchell found herself in a difficult position. With her team facing a series of disappointing seasons and her own individual performance inconsistent, Mitchell began to question her future in the WNBA. There were moments of doubt, frustration, and uncertainty about where her career was headed. The mental and emotional toll was starting to wear on her.

But everything changed when she had a conversation with none other than Caitlin Clark.

The Unlikely Mentor: Caitlin Clark’s Influence

While Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell had been fierce competitors during their college days—particularly during the Big Ten matchups—Mitchell spoke about a surprising conversation that shifted her mindset. Clark, known for her relentless work ethic, confidence, and ability to handle the spotlight, reached out to Mitchell during a particularly tough period in her career.

“I was struggling mentally, just trying to find my footing again,” Mitchell shared in the interview. “I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to keep pushing through the adversity I was facing, especially after the Fever’s rough seasons. Then, Caitlin reached out to me. It wasn’t just about basketball—it was about reminding me who I was and what I was capable of.”

Clark, who had become a dominant force in college basketball, understood the mental struggles that come with the game’s pressures. Despite their rivalry on the court, Clark’s gesture was one of solidarity, support, and advice. She reminded Mitchell of the player she was back at Ohio State—unstoppable, fearless, and confident.

“It was more than just about basketball. She told me to trust my game, trust my work ethic, and reminded me of the success I had at Ohio State. Sometimes you just need that reminder from someone who gets it, and Caitlin gave that to me,” Mitchell continued.

The Turning Point for Kelsey Mitchell

Clark’s words struck a chord with Mitchell, who admitted that hearing them made a massive difference. Instead of focusing on her struggles and the shortcomings of the Fever, Mitchell began to refocus on her strengths—her ability to score, her leadership, and her drive to constantly improve.

Since that conversation, Mitchell’s confidence has soared. She entered the next season with renewed purpose, showcasing her scoring ability and leadership both on and off the court. While the Fever still faced challenges, Mitchell’s personal game grew stronger, and her presence on the team became more vital than ever.

Her shooting percentages went up, her leadership was more visible, and she became a key contributor in guiding the Fever through their rebuilding process. The mental reset and confidence boost from Caitlin Clark’s unexpected support helped Mitchell remember the player she was meant to be.

Kelsey Mitchell and Caitlin Clark: More Than Rivals

While their rivalry on the court has certainly been one of the most exciting storylines in college basketball—particularly during their Big Ten battles—Mitchell and Clark’s off-the-court connection speaks volumes about the growing support network among women’s athletes. The story of Clark lifting up Mitchell is a perfect example of how athletes, even in high-pressure environments, can be each other’s greatest allies.

“I think people look at us as rivals, and on the court, yeah, that’s true. But outside of that, we’re both women in a sport that we love, and we understand the struggle it takes to be great,” Mitchell said with a smile.

And that mutual respect is what makes their connection so special. While Clark’s career has skyrocketed with her historic performances at Iowa, Mitchell has found her groove in Indiana, and the two players continue to be shining examples of the strength and power of women’s basketball.

A New Chapter for Kelsey Mitchell in Indiana

With her renewed confidence and the support of Clark’s mentorship, Mitchell’s future in the WNBA has never looked brighter. She’s embraced her role as a leader for the Indiana Fever, becoming one of the core players around whom the franchise can build. Her journey has been one of perseverance, self-discovery, and growth.

“I’ve had some tough seasons,” Mitchell admits. “But after Caitlin’s words, it was like I remembered who I was. I wasn’t just here to play basketball. I was here to make an impact. And that mindset has kept me pushing forward.”

Mitchell’s evolution as a player and person has made her one of the most valuable assets to the Fever. Her ability to score, lead, and inspire has been a beacon for the younger players on the roster, and she’s now one of the team’s most influential voices.

The Bigger Picture: Supporting Women’s Athletes

This interview not only sheds light on Kelsey Mitchell’s personal growth but also highlights the importance of building strong support systems within women’s sports. Female athletes have often faced challenges that male athletes do not, from unequal pay to fewer opportunities for visibility. However, mentorship, camaraderie, and support like the one between Mitchell and Clark are helping to bridge that gap.

As both players continue their careers, they’re not just changing the game on the court—they’re setting the stage for future generations of women to succeed, not just as athletes but as mentors, leaders, and inspirations.

Conclusion: A Heartfelt Moment of Growth

In the end, Kelsey Mitchell’s story is one of resilience and personal transformation. And while her career in Indiana is still unfolding, one thing is clear: Caitlin Clark didn’t just save Mitchell’s career—she helped her rediscover her passion and belief in herself. The unexpected mentorship between two fierce competitors proves that, even in a world where rivalries run deep, there’s always room for mutual respect, encouragement, and growth.

Mitchell’s journey isn’t just about basketball—it’s about the power of community, the strength of women athletes supporting each other, and the belief that with the right guidance, anything is possible.