Indiana Fever’s Kelsey Mitchell has recently spoken about her emotional struggle with Father’s Day following the sudden passing of her father, Mark. Even during the team’s triumphant game against the Chicago Sky, Mitchell shared her feelings about her father’s loss and conveyed a heartfelt message to all fathers. This article will explore Kelsey’s personal journey and the influence of her father’s legacy on her career.
In March, Kelsey’s father passed away at the age of 56, leaving behind his wife, Cheryl Mitchell, and their four children, including Kelsey. This devastating event occurred at a crucial time for Kelsey, just before she was due to attend both the 3×3 Olympic Training Camp and the WNBA training camp with the Fever. Despite this significant loss, the support of her family has been crucial in helping Kelsey through this challenging period. She frequently visits her hometown to spend time with her mother and has found solace in the love and strength of her family and friends.
An accomplished sportsman himself, Mark Mitchell’s influence on his children’s love for sports, particularly basketball, has been profound. Both Kelsey and her sister, Chelsea, played basketball at Ohio State, where their father served as an assistant coach. Following their graduation, their father continued to pursue his passion for coaching in the Cincinnati Public School System and at Wilberforce University. His involvement in their careers and his unwavering support as a father were invaluable to Kelsey, who often turned to her dad for guidance and celebration of her achievements.
Adapting to her first WNBA season without her father’s presence in the stands, Kelsey openly discusses missing him deeply. She reflects on the 28 years she shared with her dad and the impact he had on her life and career. Moreover, she acknowledges the challenges that come with the increased attention on her team, particularly with the addition of rookie Caitlin Clark. Despite the pressures and expectations, Kelsey attributes her father with instilling in her the resilience to block out external criticisms and remain focused on her game.
Currently averaging 15.4 points per game with a team that has secured several victories, Kelsey is determined to establish her own legacy with the Fever. Alongside her teammates, she continues to uphold the values and teachings she learned from her father, embodying the strength and resilience that have defined her career.
As Kelsey continues her journey in the WNBA, she carries with her the spirit of her father, finding comfort in the enduring legacy he left behind. The impact of her father’s guidance and love is evident in the person she is today, and it continues to inspire her to achieve greatness both on and off the court.
Source:
Chloe Peterson, IndyStar Fever Insider.