Kelsey Plum delivered the biggest shot of the Los Angeles Sparks’ season on Wednesday night-a game-winning runner that lifted the team over Dallas-but it was her postgame words that have everyone talking.
Asked how the Sparks could keep their playoff hopes alive, the four-time All-Star leaned into the mic and said, “We got to play some f*cking defense.” Within minutes, the unfiltered remark went viral, sparking debate among fans and putting Plum on the WNBA’s radar for potential disciplinary action.
This isn’t the first time Plum’s words have drawn attention. She previously sparked controversy with a joke about Caitlin Clark and, earlier this month, faced criticism for a hard foul against Veronica Burton of the Golden State Valkyries.
The fans did not forgive Plum either
Social media reactions to her latest comment ranged from laughter to frustration:
“Kelsey is always the class act,” one sarcastic fan wrote.
“She tries so hard to be unlikable and succeeds,” another commented on X.
“Sometimes she is an idiot. Sometimes she is amazing. That’s Kelsey,” added another observer.
On the court, Plum’s performance continues to speak loudly. She’s averaging 20.4 points, 5.9 assists, and 3.3 rebounds in her first season with the Sparks. Wednesday’s clutch shot didn’t just lift Los Angeles; it also knocked Chicago and Dallas out of playoff contention.
The Sparks have a complicated end to the season
The Sparks currently sit ninth with a 17-18 record, just one game behind Seattle for the final postseason spot. Upcoming matchups against Phoenix, Indiana, and a pivotal Sept. 1 showdown with the Storm could determine their fate.
ESPN’s index gives them a 44.1% chance of making the playoffs-but a strong finish and Plum’s scoring might turn the tide. For now, the league, fans, and the Sparks themselves are left to wonder: how steep will the price be for Kelsey Plum’s words?
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