Kelsey Plum’s 20-point and 8-assist performance fueled the Los Angeles Sparks’ surprising 101-99 road win against the New York Liberty, the Eastern Conference leaders, sealing the game with Rickea Jackson’s buzzer-beater layup. This victory marked the Sparks’ fifth consecutive win, their longest streak since 2017, improving their record to 11-14 and intensifying the playoff race where Plum sparks playoff surge.
How Plum Has Reinvented the Sparks’ Offense
Since joining the Sparks in January through a three-team trade, Plum has transformed the team’s offensive approach. Over the current five-game winning streak, she has averaged 20.8 points, 6 assists, and more than 3 made three-pointers per game, bringing a steady consistency she considers essential for elite performance. Her leadership both on and off the court has been crucial to the team’s success.
Team Dynamics and Veteran Experience
Plum’s collaboration with Dearica Hamby, who contributed to 14% of L.A.’s assisted baskets, and Rickea Jackson, who scored a combined 44 points against the Liberty, has reshaped the team’s tempo and confidence. Drawing on her experience winning back-to-back WNBA titles with Las Vegas in 2022 and 2023, Plum has instilled a championship mindset in a Sparks roster still rebuilding.
In her role as Vice President of the WNBA Players Association, she balances on-court excellence with advocacy, having co-led protests during the All-Star Game warm-up to highlight league inequities and directly addressing contentious officiating issues following stalled player-league negotiations.
Overcoming Challenges Focused on Team Growth
Despite media speculation about strained relationships with peers such as Caitlin Clark, Plum remains centered on leading tangible results. Ranking seventh in the WNBA for usage rate at 28%, she drives the Sparks’ offense effectively while mentoring Jackson to deepen the team’s talent pool. Their partnership has become a key to sustaining the current win streak and elevating team morale.
Restoring the Sparks’ Winning Tradition
The Sparks are rekindling memories of their championship legacy from 2001, 2002, and 2016 while navigating modern obstacles. They struggle defensively, ranking third-worst in opponent rebounds with 9.0 per game, but Plum’s leadership in the backcourt has maximized their strengths. For example, the team made ten first-half three-pointers against New York and out-rebounded the Aces by 10 in an earlier victory.
The return of defensive specialist Cameron Brink after a 13-month injury absence is expected to strengthen the team’s interior presence, positioning the Sparks as a potential playoff surprise. Plum’s accolades—including two WNBA rings, three All-Star selections, the 2021 Sixth Player of the Year award, and 2022 All-Star Game MVP—serve as an example for younger players on the team.
“Consistency is what separates high-level athletes,”
Plum said, illustrating the mindset behind the Sparks’ 4-1 record in games decided by five points during their streak, where she has been involved in 78% of clutch scoring plays.
Outlook for the Playoffs and Beyond
With the WNBA playoffs expanding and the Finals moving to a best-of-seven format starting September 14, Plum’s dual role as a leading scorer and playmaker will be vital. She and Rickea Jackson, who combined for seven three-pointers in the Liberty game, need to maintain significant playing time amid a bench that contributes only six points per game.
If Plum continues her impressive average of 20 points, 6 assists, and 3 three-pointers per game while Hamby controls the glass, the Sparks have a strong chance of securing their first postseason berth since 2020, ending a multi-year playoff drought and reviving hopes for a deep postseason run.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Kelsey Plum throw a T-shirt to her dad?
A. For those unfamiliar, she tossed the shirt to her dad, aimed at him, and threw it. He caught it, showing just how impressive her throw is.
Q. Why did Kelsey Plum leave aces?
A. At 30, Plum played a key role in the Aces’ journey to WNBA success, helping them win championships in 2022 and 2023. She was part of one of the league’s top backcourts. However, the Aces faced salary cap challenges, and the Sparks needed an experienced leader. This trade gave Plum a chance for a fresh start.
Q. Why did Kelsey Plum leave the Aces?
A. I felt ready to move forward in my life. That’s why I decided to take a chance. I wanted to start fresh both personally and at work. Plum mentioned that rumors about tension with the Aces were unfounded and should be dismissed.