Unbothered by Questionable Fever Future, Kelsey Mitchell Kicks Off China Stint With Unusual Commercial

“I’m gonna do what’s best for me.” These words from Kelsey Mitchell’s exit interview left Indiana Fever fans on edge as they got no clear answer about her return to the franchise next season. Now, the shooting guard decided to explore overseas off-season opportunities and eventually landed in China with the Shanxi Flame. But it turns out her time abroad isn’t just about basketball as the Fever guard unexpectedly made her debut in a local commercial.

Recently, a fan account dedicated to WNBA players playing in China shared a clip that spotted Mitchell promoting the hotel where she probably resides in the Asian country. The Chinese Women’s Hoop Show tweeted the video and wrote, “Kelsey Mitchell doing a commercial for her hotel😂.” The clip, over a minute long, kicked off with a highlight reel of Fever star’s WNBA performances and then cuts to Mitchell herself walking through the hotel, heading towards the gym.

The 28-year-old star also talked about the perks of staying there, from the exceptional hospitality to the top-notch gym facilities and, of course, the welcoming people. The unusual part of the entire video was the Ohio State alumna’s way of talking, in which she, who seemingly does not know Mandarin, is trying hard to convert her words. Moreover, she’s not typically one to promote brands and that only adds another layer to this stint.

Aside from her own Kelz Hoop organization, which she’s deeply connected to, Mitchell hasn’t been known for diving into brand collaborations. However, with this new commercial in China, it seems like she might be opening the door to more off-court ventures in the near future.

Moreover about her main on-court activity, Mitchell’s team in the WCBA has a history of attracting big names like Maya Moore in the past, but they finished seventh in the standings last season. With the 8-year veteran now on board, however, the hope is that her presence could lead to better results. Still, for Fever fans back in Indianapolis, the only underlying concern is her retention as she is currently a free agent.

Kelsey Mitchell’s future with Fever swings on a seesaw

Kelsey Mitchell who made her debut with Indiana back in 2018, has been the team’s top scorer every year except her rookie season. But now, she is out of contract and an unrestricted free agent. This means, if only Fever wants to keep her, they must have to make a move by offering her a new deal. But now, as a UFA with her contract expired, the ball is in the Fever’s court. If they want to keep her around for the future, they’ll need to make a move and offer her a new deal.

Meanwhile, the team has undergone some significant changes, including a new head coach, Stephanie White, who’s focused on rebuilding the team with championship aspirations in mind. In fact, during White’s introductory press conference and interviews, fans became concerned when Mitchell’s name wasn’t mentioned much and the spotlight, rather, was on strategies surrounding Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston.

Despite that, there’s still plenty of hope for Mitchell’s future with the team. Fever beat reporter Scott Agness recently shared a promising update. “I don’t know yet what Steph thinks about NaLyssa Smith or Kelsey Mitchell, Temi, Grace—you name it. But she did mention Aliyah, Caitlin, and Kelsey. Those three are foundational pieces of this franchise, so you’d expect them to stay,”  the Fever reporter tweeted on X.

via Imago

Earlier in the season, Mitchell herself dropped some subtle hints that she might be ready to move on from the Indiana Fever. However, recent developments and her growing connection with teammate Caitlin Clark—especially their close “Backcourt Homie” bond—have sparked hope that the veteran might stick around.

If only the Fever can offer her a deal that aligns with what’s best for her, fans could see Mitchell continue to wear the navy blue for more years to come. For now, though, she’s staying busy with her commitments and new ventures, including commercials in China!