On June 27, 2025, in a highly anticipated WNBA game, Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell delivered an electrifying performance that reignited debates about the league’s top offensive player. Despite the usual spotlight on Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, both prolific scorers, a broadcaster emphatically declared Mitchell as the best offensive talent in the WNBA during the game in Phoenix, Arizona. This assertion challenged common expectations and shifted the focus firmly onto Mitchell’s dominant showing.
Mitchell’s 32-point night, highlighted by an 11-point surge in the third quarter including several deep three-pointers, helped Indiana overcome a tough mid-game deficit. This continued her streak of scoring in double digits for 15 consecutive games, underscoring her consistency and lethal scoring ability. The game’s momentum swung on her performance, demonstrating why some see her as the premier offensive player in the league.
Broadcast commentators highlight Mitchell’s skill set and team role
The enthusiasm from the broadcast booth was palpable during Mitchell’s scoring burst, with one commentator stating,
There is nobody better offensively in the WNBA. I don’t care.
—Commentator
Further praise came as they described her agility, driving capabilities, and three-point shooting, emphasizing how well Indiana’s offense creates space for her. Another analyst noted,
They do such a great job of getting her open in space. Then she can create her own moves off the dribble, attack the rim.
—Commentator
Mitchell herself echoed this mindset after the game, referring to the Fever’s evolving team strategy and willingness to sacrifice for one another. She remarked,
Our shifts keep changing, everybody doing a different role, and so I think we all got the mentality where you give and you sacrifice. And I think that’s what y’all see,
—Kelsey Mitchell
This collective effort was evident as the Fever overcame a mid-game scoring deficit to rally late, with teammates like Natasha Howard contributing significantly alongside Mitchell.
Clark’s injury postpones high-profile matchup with Bueckers, increasing anticipation
The matchup many fans eagerly awaited—Caitlin Clark versus Paige Bueckers—was delayed when Clark was sidelined due to a left groin injury. Clark missed her seventh consecutive game on June 28 against the Dallas Wings, following a quad injury that had already kept her out of the previous matchup against the Sparks. Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White described Clark’s condition as
I thought it was very much a day-to-day thing … how she responds to treatment.
—Stephanie White
Clark has been a pivotal player for Indiana all season, averaging 19.0 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.6 rebounds through 49 games. A former Rookie of the Year and multiple-time All-Star, Clark has broken numerous records including rookie milestones for points, assists, and turnovers. Though she sustained injuries that caused her to miss games this season, her impact remains strong when healthy.
In her absence, Paige Bueckers has risen as a formidable contender, delivering memorable performances for the Dallas Wings. Bueckers is noted for her rapid ascent, achieving 200 points, 50 rebounds, and 50 assists faster than any WNBA player in history, doing so in just 11 games. She also recorded a unique stat line with over 25 points, 5 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, and no turnovers in a single game. This impressive run has only deepened the buzz surrounding the prospective Clark-Bueckers showdown.
The Fever’s resilience underscores Mitchell’s leadership amid team challenges
During the game against the Wings, Indiana fell behind early but mounted a comeback fueled by Mitchell’s scoring and Natasha Howard’s 15-point contribution. Despite Paige Bueckers’ fiery shooting that helped Dallas outscore the Fever by 15 points in the middle quarters, Indiana responded with a decisive 12-2 run late in the fourth quarter, helping forge a lead that secured the win. Notably, this game unfolded without the presence of Caitlin Clark, yet Mitchell’s influence ensured Indiana remained competitive.
A broadcaster reflected on Mitchell’s longstanding status as a notable offensive threat, saying,
She’s- Yeah, just when I was playing in the league, Kelsey’s gal is kind of funny that it’s kind of like Caitlyn’s gal. Do not let her touch the ball. Run off all screen. So before Caitlyn, there was Kelsey Mitchell. So I remember guarding her in the house.
—Former Player/Commentator
This testimony highlights Mitchell’s reputation predating the current debate and suggests her offensive capabilities have long commanded defensive attention.
Looking forward: anticipation builds for a renewed Clark-Bueckers rivalry and Mitchell’s continued rise
Despite the delay of the much-anticipated clash between Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, fan excitement continues to grow, fueled by the promise of their impending confrontation. Meanwhile, Kelsey Mitchell’s recent performances have injected a new dynamic into this ongoing discussion about the WNBA’s best offensive player. Her ability to score consistently and lead her team through resilient efforts adds depth to the league’s offensive landscape.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the health and performances of these three standout players. The upcoming July 13 game now carries added significance, with the potential to settle debates about offensive supremacy in the WNBA and showcase the evolving talent that defines women’s basketball today.