The 2024 WNBA All-Star Game provided plenty of highlights, but one moment involving Kelsey Plum and Caitlin Clark stood out.
In a clip that quickly went viral, Plum was seen applying full-court defensive pressure on Clark, despite the game being an exhibition.
Internet laughs off Plum’s explanation
The footage sparked a wave of reactions online, with some fans amused and others questioning the level of intensity in a non-competitive setting.
Plum, who recently joined the Los Angeles Sparks, took to social media to clarify her approach, explaining that her defensive stance wasn’t targeted at Clark specifically.
Instead, she was simply following instructions from the Team USA coaching staff.
The two-time WNBA champion responded directly to the viral clip, stating, “Dawg could have been CC, could have been my grandma. Coaches made me pick up full court and deny the ball back, I tried.”
The video initially resurfaced as part of a social media trend rather than criticism of Plum’s play.
The clip was repurposed by fans referencing an unrelated online poll, which Plum was unaware of, which became more of a laughing stock for fans.
Despite the initial misunderstanding, Clark’s fans were quick to defend Plum, acknowledging her intensity and competitiveness.
One user reassured her, “Nobody questioning how you played. Us CC fans know you got the dawg in you. Nothing but love.”
As Plum transitions to her new team in Los Angeles, she remains focused on making an impact with the Sparks.
The blockbuster trade that sent her to L.A. has already sparked discussions about the team’s future, and Plum has expressed confidence in her new franchise.
“[The Sparks] have not just met but exceeded my expectations. I’ve been treated better than I’ve ever been as a WNBA player,” she said.
Plum and the Sparks will start the 2025 WNBA season on May 16th against the debuting franchise, the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center in San Francisco.
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