At the Golden State Valkyries’ season opener, 18,064 fans witnessed Kelsey Plum’s historic debut for the Los Angeles Sparks. Plum scored 37 points, setting a franchise record for most points in a debut and the highest points scored by any WNBA player in a season opener. Her performance also included six assists and five steals, making her the first WNBA player to record at least 35 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals in a single game. The Sparks secured an 84-67 victory in front of a record crowd.
Plum Transitions to Lead Role, Emphasizing Strength, Skill, and Offensive Leadership Growth
Plum’s move to the Sparks marked a shift from playing alongside star players like A’ja Wilson with the Las Vegas Aces to becoming the Sparks’ primary offensive option. The team hoped Plum could revitalize their struggling offense, which had trouble scoring consistently last season. Plum credited learning from Wilson about balancing aggression and being intentional in her play, aiming to improve her decision-making and leadership on the court.
Kelsey Plum (NBA)During the offseason, Plum focused on strength and conditioning to enhance her stamina and ability to sustain a high pace for an entire game. Sparks coach Natalie Nakase praised Plum’s fearless style, highlighting her ability to attack the paint, draw fouls, and shoot from different positions. This physical and mental readiness was evident as Plum played effectively throughout the game, especially during the Sparks’ decisive run in the second half.
Sparks Face Offensive Growing Pains but Show Strong Defense and Team Resilience
Despite Plum’s standout performance, the Sparks experienced some challenges, particularly in the third quarter when the offense became rushed and less organized. Plum acknowledged that the team is still adapting to a new system and emphasized the need for patience as they develop timing and chemistry. She expressed confidence in the team’s athleticism and potential for growth as they continue to gel together.
In the final quarter, the Sparks relied on strong defense to limit the Valkyries to just seven points and regain control of the game. Coach Lynne Roberts praised the team’s resilience and mental toughness, especially winning on the road. Along with Plum, three other Sparks players—Dearica Hamby, Rickea Jackson, and Azura Stevens—contributed double-digit points, showcasing a balanced team effort in their season-opening victory.
