Public Disclosure Sparks Free Agency Intrigue
Washington Mystics forward Shakira Austin has publicly expressed a desire to play alongside Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell, a development that adds a layer of uncertainty to the upcoming WNBA free agency period. The comment was made during an appearance on the Post Moves podcast, as reported by Yahoo Sports in an article published on November 12, 2026.
During the interview, host Aliyah Boston asked Austin to identify one WNBA player she would most like to team up with. Austin responded, “I ain’t going to lie. Uh, no shade but Kelsey Mitchell.” The remark prompted a swift, playful reaction from Boston, who jokingly suggested the segment would need to be edited to avoid further implications regarding Mitchell’s future with the Fever.
Stakes for the Upcoming Offseason
Kelsey Mitchell is set to become an unrestricted free agent in February 2027 following a career-best 2026 campaign. During the 2026 season, Mitchell averaged 24.7 points per game while shooting 50.9% from the field and 45% from three-point range. For the Indiana Fever, re-signing Mitchell remains a primary objective as the organization navigates internal front-office changes.
Shakira Austin also recorded a strong 2026 season for Washington, averaging 17.0 points and 9.5 rebounds. Her public lobbying highlights the Mystics as a potential destination should Mitchell choose to test the open market. While Austin’s comments do not alter the contractual status of either player, they underscore the rising profile of both stars ahead of the league’s February free agency window.