Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum sparked debate following the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game on July 19, where players wore t-shirts that read,
“Pay us what you owe us,”
during their warm-up on the court. Plum commented that the decision to wear the shirts was made during a meeting that morning and highlighted that no members from Team Clark, led by Liberty star Caitlin Clark, were present for this discussion, drawing widespread backlash for seemingly undermining the players’ unified stance.
Kelsey Plum Points Out Team Clark’s Absence from T-Shirt Decision
During a discussion alongside Sabrina Ionescu, who was part of Team Clark, Plum explained,
“The t-shirt, this united front, was determined this morning, that we had a meeting for. And not to tattletale, but zero members of Team Clark were very present for that.”
This remark triggered discomfort, with Ionescu responding somewhat awkwardly,
“Not really needed to be mentioned!”
Plum doubled down on her point, describing the moment as powerful and unexpected for many players, emphasizing the lack of Team Clark’s involvement in the shirt campaign.
Public Reaction and Sports Media Backlash
The comments made by Plum reignited discussions across the WNBA community, where many felt she distracted from the larger message of player solidarity and payment equity that the shirts symbolized. Rather than a collective effort, Plum’s remarks framed the event as divided, leading to criticism about her approach to the topic.
In response, Colin Cowherd, a prominent sports media figure, addressed Plum’s comments on his July 21 show, The Herd with Colin Cowherd. Cowherd criticized her public shot at Caitlin Clark, whom he described as instrumental in elevating the WNBA’s profile. Cowherd said,
“The t-shirts don’t bother me. But why do you take a shot at the golden goose, Caitlin Clark? You guys were flying, before she arrived, on one of those airlines that made you pay for a cup of water. One of those airlines that the planes are the color of a highlighter. And now you’re flying private,”
highlighting the growth and improvements attributed to Clark’s impact.
Colin Cowherd Urges Growth and Unity Among Players
Cowherd continued his critique by urging the players to focus on progress rather than division, stating,
“Keep your issues to yourself. You went from a Motel 6 in a sketchy part of town to a Four Seasons in the shopping district. Stop talking. I don’t mind the t-shirts, I think you have leverage… But it’s just misstep after misstep.”
He pressed for maturity within the league, emphasizing Caitlin Clark’s role in driving positive change and success for the WNBA.
“It’s time to grow up, girls. Like, fast. Like, this is the player that got you off the airline that was bright yellow,”
Cowherd added, underscoring Clark’s influence in elevating the league’s status and resources.
Implications for Team Dynamics and WNBA Unity
This incident highlights challenges within WNBA player dynamics, where internal disagreements risk overshadowing broader issues such as fair compensation and player rights. The Kelsey Plum All-Star Shirt Controversy has drawn attention to the importance of maintaining solidarity among players to strengthen their negotiating position and public image.
With rising stars like Caitlin Clark receiving both praise and scrutiny, how the league’s players manage internal disputes could shape the future direction of the WNBA’s growth and collective advocacy efforts. As the conversations continue, the hope remains for a united front that can push forward player goals without distractions from internal conflicts.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Kelsey Plum get surgery?
A. Guard Kelsey Plum from the Las Vegas Aces had a small surgery on her right shoulder to fix her labrum. She is expected to fully recover and train during the offseason before the 2023 WNBA season starts. The upcoming season will be Plum’s sixth year playing in the WNBA.
Q. Did Kelsey Plum throw a T-shirt to her dad?
A. Kelsey Plum didn’t just throw the T-shirt a long distance; it reached her dad with perfect precision. Some time ago, there was a news segment about the incident, confirming it was indeed him.
Q. Did Kelsey Plum throw a shirt to her dad?
A. Kelsey Plum not only threw the item a long distance, but she was also very precise. She aimed the T-shirt perfectly at her dad.
Q. Did Kelsey Plum throw the shirt to her dad?
A. For anyone unfamiliar, she tossed the shirt towards her dad. After pointing at him, she threw it, and he managed to catch it. This shows how great her throw was.