The Los Angeles Sparks demonstrated their commitment to hastening the pace of their rebuild by acquiring All-Star guard Kelsey Plum in a sign-and-trade transaction during WNBA free agency. This marks a fresh start for Plum, who spent her initial eight seasons with the Las Vegas Aces.
Additionally, it serves as a homecoming for Plum, who is originally from Southern California and excelled at La Jolla Country Day High School. In a statement issued by the Sparks, Plum expressed her excitement about what she can offer the team following her consecutive championship victories with the Aces.
“Joining the Sparks is an incredible honor,” Plum stated. “Growing up in Southern California, I watched this franchise set the standard for excellence, and now I’m blessed to be part of the Sparks’ championship legacy. The list of greats who have played here is legendary, and I’ll be doing everything I can to honor this history and add to it.”
Plum continued, “Over the years, I’ve learned what’s required to win championships, and I’m prepared to bring this mindset to this team and contribute to a winning culture. Los Angeles can count on me doing whatever it takes to win on the court, while striving to make a positive difference in the community. I can’t wait to get to work.”
The agreement for Plum became official on Saturday when players and teams were allowed to sign new contracts. Plum, who was designated as a core player by the Aces at the onset of free agency, is expected to step in as the Sparks’ starting point guard right away.
Kelsey Plum joins Sparks in WNBA free agency
Prior to the Plum trade, it seemed the Sparks were poised to enter the next stage of their rebuild with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. However, that pick has now been sent to the Seattle Storm as part of the exchange for Plum.
By exiting the lottery and acquiring Plum, the Sparks are signaling their intent to expedite their rebuilding process. They now have two solid cornerstones in Rickea Jackson and Camron Brink, both of whom could flourish alongside Plum as the primary ball-handler and playmaker.
But Plum is not the only significant addition to the roster. The Sparks also welcomed a new head coach in Lynne Roberts, who previously coached at the NCAA level. In a statement released by the team, Roberts shared her enthusiasm about the opportunity to coach Plum.
“Having coached against Kelsey in the Pac-12, I have firsthand experience facing her as a competitor,” Roberts remarked. “Her talent, work ethic and competitiveness are exactly what our franchise needs. I am confident that Kelsey will thrive in our style of play, and we’re going to rely on her to bring her remarkable winning pedigree and leadership to our team.”
Last season, Plum earned her third consecutive All-Star selection. She played in 38 games, averaging nearly 34 minutes per game, along with 17.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, shooting 42.3 percent from the field, 36.8 percent from beyond the arc, and 86.6 percent from the free-throw line.
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