The new “Unrivaled” league, founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, has generated significant interest. Offering players the chance to stay in the U.S. during the offseason and earn six figures in just three months, the league is set to launch in January 2025. However, two Indiana Fever players, Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, are opting out of this promising opportunity.
Rookie forward Angel Reese had earlier praised the benefits of the 3-on-3 league, sparking speculation that Clark and Mitchell would join. But hopes were dashed when Clark revealed she plans to pursue professional golf during the offseason. She made her intentions clear during a post-conference interview, stating, “I’ll become a professional golfer.” She further solidified this decision by announcing her participation in The Annika Pro Am.
Shortly after, Kelsey Mitchell also confirmed she wouldn’t be joining “Unrivaled.” Instead, Mitchell is set to play for WBCA, heading overseas to the Chinese league with a contract from the Shanxi team. She’s not alone in this decision, as Chicago Sky players Chennedy Carter and rookie Kamilla Cardoso are also headed to China, though they’ll be competing as rivals.
For fans of “Unrivaled,” Mitchell’s decision is disappointing. As news of her choice spread, fans voiced their frustrations, with one social media user questioning whether other stars would follow suit. Many were surprised that Mitchell and other well-known players are choosing overseas opportunities rather than joining the new U.S.-based league.
While Mitchell’s move has caused some disappointment, the “Unrivaled” league is still attracting big names. So far, 24 of the 30 spots have been filled, including stars like Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese. Recently, Brittney Griner, a 10-time WNBA All-Star, also signed on. Despite the remaining six spots, Mitchell has chosen to pursue her career overseas.
Some fans speculate that the higher pay in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) is a key factor. While “Unrivaled” offers a minimum salary of $100,000, players in the CBA can earn between $200,000 and up to a million dollars. This has led to speculation that Mitchell made a financial decision, with one fan noting, “I’d imagine that Kelsey can make a lot more money in China than by playing in Unrivalled
Other Indiana Fever players, like last season’s Rookie of the Year Aliyah Boston, Lexie Hull, and Grace Berger, have also yet to provide updates on their offseason plans. NaLyssa Smith is set to play for Zhejiang in the WCBA, and Temi Fagbenle will head to Turkey, further indicating that Fever players are prioritizing international opportunities over the new league. One fan even expressed confusion, asking why no Fever players are participating in “Unrivaled.”
Although the league is drawing attention with its high salary potential, for now, many Fever players are choosing to play overseas. Nonetheless, fans remain optimistic about the future, with some cheering on Mitchell and wishing her well in China. There is also hope that players might consider joining “Unrivaled” in future seasons.
While the absence of big names like Clark and Mitchell may be disappointing for “Unrivaled” fans, the league is still shaping up to be a major attraction, offering a competitive alternative for players seeking offseason opportunities within the U.S.
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