SPORTS

Fever re-sign Mitchell and Clark returns for preseason

PUBLISHED Apr 29, 2026, 3:19 AM ET

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Indianapolis — On April 11 the Indiana Fever re-signed guard Kelsey Mitchell to a one-year supermax contract after the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement increased the salary cap to $7 million. This week the Fever returned to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for preseason play, where Caitlin Clark made her first home appearance since July and logged minutes in a tune-up game. The Mitchell signing secures a top scorer and marks one of the first $1 million seasons for a Fever player under the CBA, while the team prepares for its May 9 regular-season opener against the Dallas Wings. Coaches confirmed two players were withheld from the lineup for precautionary reasons, and medical staff said they will monitor availability through the preseason.

By Adyan K. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

July 13, 2025 — Caitlin Clark last played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse before a long absence.
2026 — WNBA and players reach a tentative seven-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (2026–2032) with increased pay and a $7 million cap.
April 11, 2026 — Indiana Fever re-sign Kelsey Mitchell to a one-year supermax contract worth 20% of the $7 million cap.
Early May 2026 — Fever played a preseason game versus the New York Liberty; Clark logged 17 minutes and recorded 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Preseason Thursday night — Clark scored 21 against the Dallas Wings, suffered a leg collision resulting in a Flagrant 1 call, and left the game for bench monitoring.

News Intelligence

The Fever's recent moves show a commitment to winning. Mitchell's signing means more thrilling games as she's a top scorer. Clark's return could boost the team's performance. If you're a fan, mark May 9 for the season opener against the Dallas Wings.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5

Who Benefited

The WNBA and its players will benefit from the new Collective Bargaining Agreement's increased salary cap, greater revenue sharing, and higher average salaries, delivering larger guaranteed compensation and long-term contract stability for top players.

Who Impacted

Individual teams and players may suffer short-term impacts from preseason injuries, precautionary absences, and roster adjustments that could affect early-season performance and depth.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Individual teams and players may suffer short-term impacts from preseason injuries, precautionary absences, and roster adjustments that could affect early-season performance and depth.