Caitlin Clark was supposed to be the main attraction at this year’s WNBA All-Star Game, but a lingering groin injury has sidelined the Indiana Fever rookie. Still, the Fever brand will be well represented, and it’s Kelsey Mitchell who’s taking center stage.
Clark had been selected as a captain for the event and drafted both Aliyah Boston and Mitchell to her squad. Boston was already slotted into the starting lineup, but Clark’s absence opened the door for Mitchell to get the starting nod as well.
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Kelsey Mitchell steps up as Caitlin Clark sits out
The move was made official by Team Clark’s coach, Sandy Brondello, who also coaches the New York Liberty. With several players out due to injury, Mitchell’s veteran presence made her a logical choice to move into a more prominent role.
The Indiana Fever posted the update, confirming that Mitchell would start in place of Clark.
Mitchell, now in her eighth year with the Fever and playing under head coach Stephanie White for the first time, has been one of the team’s most reliable scorers. She’s putting up 19.1 points per game, along with nearly 3 assists and a couple of rebounds each night.
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As for Clark, she’s missed 11 games so far this season and has been dealing with recurring setbacks. Sitting out the All-Star Game may be a preventative move as she prepares for the second half of the year, where the Fever hope to stay in the playoff picture.
For now, Mitchell will take the spotlight at the All-Star Game, giving Indiana fans at least one familiar face to cheer for when the action tips off.
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