Former Aces’ Rookie in Tears Following Being Waived

According to SI.com, The Las Vegas Aces waived guard Deja Kelly on May 12, an announcement that went viral and came as a surprise to many. Garnering attention from NBA players and fans alike.

The news came a month after the Aces announced the signing of the rookie guard to a training camp contract on April 18.

Kelly became a fan favorite early in the preseason where she hit a thrilling game winner over the Phoenix Mercury.

Deja Kelly spent her first four collegiate seasons at North Carolina. She left North Carolina ranked No. 8 in the program’s all-time scoring list (1,858 points) and helped the Tar Heels to four straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Kelly spoke with Ros Gold-Onwude on the Good Follow Show following being waived from the Aces. The former Aces guard was honest and emotional in reflecting on her time with the organization — holding back tears as she shared feelings of thankfulness for the opportunity.

“I’m not here to prove anyone wrong, I’m here to prove myself right,” Kelly said. “I think, first, for me, it just felt like a sense of gratitude … just being able to be on that court in that moment,” Kelly said.

Kelly continued, “That was one of the best moments of my basketball career, really. And again, for that to be how my W career starts was a such a blessing … It was just a sense of happiness … with that team,” she added. “It was an opportunity that I’ll forever be grateful to [Las Vegas] for.”

It will be interesting to see where Deja Kelly lands to continue her dream.