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Caitlin Clark Thinks Kelsey Mitchell Deserves WNBA MVP Recognition After Career-High Performance

baotran August 17, 2025

Caitlin Clark Thinks Kelsey Mitchell Deserves WNBA MVP Recognition After Career-High Performance

Indiana Fever star Kelsey Mitchell turned heads Sunday with a career-defining performance, and even WNBA MVP candidate Caitlin Clark believes she deserves the recognition.

Mitchell delivered a WNBA season-high 38 points in a thrilling 99-93 overtime victory against the Connecticut Sun. The game highlighted Mitchell’s talent and determination, particularly during the second half, where she scored 34 of her points after halftime to lead the Fever’s comeback. Her performance was more than just scoring—Mitchell also contributed six assists and made 5-of-8 three-pointers, proving her impact on both ends of the court.

Caitlin Clark, who is rehabbing from a groin injury and did not attend the game, made her opinion known on social media: “MVP kels.” Clark, who had been an MVP frontrunner before missing over half the season due to injuries, clearly felt Mitchell’s dominance warranted serious consideration.

Mitchell’s teammates were equally impressed. Aliyah Boston spoke highly of Mitchell’s influence, noting, “When you watch Kelsey play, you look at what she means to the squad — I think coming out of that second half and going off the way she did, it speaks for her case in general. She comes out, she defends, she scores the ball, she plays 40 minutes per game and she still consistently puts up these numbers. I feel like if she’s not MVP, shoot. That’s crazy.”

Coming into the game, Mitchell was already having a strong season. She averaged 19.9 points per game—ranking fourth in the WNBA—along with 3.3 assists, while connecting on 37.7% of her three-pointers. Her Sunday performance reinforced her ability to carry her team in crucial moments.

The conversation around WNBA MVP candidates this season has been wide-ranging. Other notable contenders include:

Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx): Leading the league with 23.5 points and 1.8 steals per game, Collier has been instrumental in keeping the Lynx at the top of the standings.
Allisha Gray (Atlanta Dream): Averaging 18.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, Gray has helped Atlanta fight for the No. 2 playoff seed.
Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty): Contributing 19.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, Ionescu remains a consistent performer for New York.
Kelsey Plum (Los Angeles Sparks): Averaging 20.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.5 three-pointers per game, Plum has been a dynamic offensive force for the Sparks.
Alyssa Thomas (Phoenix Mercury): With 16.1 points, league-leading 9.0 assists, and 8.6 rebounds per game, Thomas made history this season with three consecutive triple-doubles.
A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces): Posting 22.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, Wilson has been a consistent MVP contender throughout 2024.

Despite missing games due to injury, Clark’s endorsement of Mitchell adds a compelling voice to the MVP conversation. Her recognition of Mitchell’s skill and leadership speaks volumes, particularly coming from a player who herself has been in the MVP discussion this season.

Sunday’s performance is likely to bolster Mitchell’s case for MVP consideration, highlighting her ability to step up in critical moments and lead her team when it matters most. As the WNBA season continues, Mitchell’s career-high game could be a defining moment that cements her place among the league’s elite players.

With playoffs approaching, the MVP debate is set to intensify. Mitchell’s display of scoring, defense, and leadership serves as a reminder that true value in basketball extends beyond stats—it’s about making a difference when it counts, inspiring teammates, and consistently delivering under pressure.

For Indiana Fever fans and WNBA enthusiasts alike, Mitchell’s performance is a sign that the MVP race this year is more exciting and competitive than ever. Whether she ultimately claims the title, her ability to carry her team and impress her peers, including Caitlin Clark, ensures her place in the season’s most memorable moments.