Kelsey Mitchell is a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court, but she's not resting on her laurels. She's got her eyes on the next level, and it's all about refining her craft.
Mitchell's prowess in driving to the rim and her lightning-quick speed are well-known, but she's also a sharpshooter from beyond the arc. For three consecutive seasons, she's been hitting 3-pointers at a remarkable 39% or higher on over six attempts per game. But here's where it gets intriguing: she's not satisfied.
In a conversation with WNBA legend Lisa Leslie, Mitchell revealed a skill she's honing to elevate her game. Leslie, a former Sparks star, recalled advising Mitchell, 'You go so hard to the basket... I need a little bit more mid-range game.' And Mitchell is taking that advice to heart.
Mitchell's shot selection primarily consists of three-pointers and shots close to the basket. Last season, out of 691 shots, 570 fell into these categories. But here's the twist: she's been working on her mid-range game, and it's paying off. She took 121 mid-range shots, converting 36.4%, a solid improvement.
While her mid-range percentage might not seem impressive compared to her other shooting stats (59.6% in the restricted area, 45% in the paint, and 39.4% from three), it's a skill that could make her even more dominant. And this is the part most people miss—a well-rounded offensive game is a nightmare for defenders.
As for her future, Mitchell's situation is a bit uncertain due to ongoing CBA negotiations. However, all signs point to her returning to the Fever. She's been loyal to the franchise through thick and thin, and with the team's recent success, it's unlikely she'll leave now. The Fever also seem keen on keeping her, making her re-signing a priority.
The front office has a busy off-season ahead, with several key players like Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, and Lexie Hull also up for contract negotiations. Hull, a restricted free agent, is expected to be a priority re-signing, as her skills complement the team's stars perfectly.
So, will Mitchell's mid-range game become her secret weapon? And will she lead the Fever to new heights? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: Kelsey Mitchell is a player to watch, and her impact on the court is undeniable.
