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Kelsey Plum Had Words for A’ja Wilson After Historic LA Sparks Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Spencer Ostrow | Last updated May 17, 2025 1:42 PM ET

Three-time WNBA All-Star Kelsey Plum made her Los Angeles Sparks debut on Friday night after coming over from the Las Vegas Aces in the offseason. Facing the Golden State Valkyries in their inaugural game, Plum put on a show—dropping 37 points on 11-of-19 shooting, along with two rebounds, six assists, and five steals.

In the Sparks’ 84-67 win, Plum became the first player in league history to record at least 35 points, five assists, and five steals in a single game. She also set both the Sparks franchise record and the WNBA record for most points in a season opener.

Following the game, Plum spoke about her ability to know when to be aggressive and when to pull back, giving a shoutout to her former Aces teammate and reigning WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson.

"I have spent a lot of time learning, particularly from A'ja," Plum said. "Watching her pick her spots and just being intentional about when to be aggressive, when not to be aggressive. I don't think I did a tremendous job balancing, but I'll continue to get better."

Plum and Wilson spent six seasons together, reaching the WNBA Finals three times and winning back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023.

They parted ways in the offseason when Plum approved a sign-and-trade to join the Sparks. Wilson said she processed her leaving like anyone else would.

"I processed it just like anyone else," Wilson told KTNV reporter Taylor Rocha. "It is what it is. It's a business. People wanna work on their brand, new journeys, new stories.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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