In her debut with the Los Angeles Sparks, Kelsey Plum made history by scoring 37 points in an 84-67 victory over the Golden State Valkyries, marking the second-highest attendance home debut in WNBA history. Plum’s performance, which also included six assists and five steals, made her the first player in WNBA history to achieve at least 35 points, five assists, and five steals in a game.
Plum emphasized her focus on having fun and competing, as she transitioned from playing alongside stars like A’ja Wilson to being the primary offensive option for the Sparks. The team hopes her presence will rejuvenate their stagnant offense from last season. Plum spent the offseason enhancing her strength and conditioning to enable her to play competitive minutes.
The game featured a strong start for the Sparks, who built a 15-point lead, but the Valkyries narrowed the gap with a series of three-pointers. However, the Sparks maintained control through solid defense in the final quarter, limiting Golden State to just seven points. Sparks coach Lynn Roberts noted the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, showcasing their determination and growth. Plum was supported by her teammates, with significant contributions from others, highlighting the team’s depth.
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