Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Kelsey Plum’s Former Teammate Addresses Sparks Reunion

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Enzo Flojo | Last updated Feb 20, 2025 7:46 AM ET

The Los Angeles Sparks' recent free agency acquisition has not only bolstered their frontcourt but also set the stage for an exciting reunion.

Mercedes Russell, a seven-year WNBA veteran, played 189 regular season games and won two championships with the Seattle Storm. Now, she is heading to Los Angeles, where she will reunite with former McDonald's All-American Game teammate Kelsey Plum in the WNBA for the first time.

While adding Russell was a key move, she is equally thrilled about reuniting with Plum, who remains one of the WNBA’s premier guards.

"I've been great friends with her, and just knowing her off the court is really special," Russell said during a Zoom call with media on Tuesday. "On the court, look at what she's done—her accolades and her mentality, how her game has grown since she's been in the league is amazing."

Enjoy @sluggahjells' talk with Mercedes Russell about being teammates with Kelsey Plum at the 2013 McDonald's All-American Girls' Game, and pairing back with her.

"I've been great friends with her and just knowing her off the court is really special."https://t.co/Oe3X74u2aU pic.twitter.com/K6TaV58gWg
— The Whole Delivery (@TWDTV1) February 20, 2025

The two were once teammates at the 2013 McDonald's All-American Girls' Game, showcasing their talents on one of high school basketball’s biggest stages. More than a decade later, they’ll share the floor again, this time donning Sparks jerseys.

"Thinking back to 2013, I haven't played with her in so long," Russell said. "It's gonna be cool just to be back on the court together and put that work together again."

With a reloaded roster and a renewed sense of purpose, the Sparks are ready to turn the page. As for Russell and Plum, their basketball story together is just getting started again.

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

More must-reads: