Kelsey Plum reflects on WNBA’s growth, embraces leadership role with young Sparks roster

Kelsey Plum at Crypto Arena last season - photo by Jackie Rae

For Kelsey Plum, the WNBA’s rise isn’t just something she’s witnessed — it’s something she helped build.

Once one of the league’s most vocal advocates for equity, Plum now finds herself in a moment she says feels “full circle,” as the WNBA enters its 30th season with increased visibility, higher standards and a new generation of players stepping into a different reality.

“I’m just so proud of the result and just the group,” Plum said during Sparks practice this week. “It’s been a long time coming. And we’re just going to continue this — the momentum from prior seasons into this season and moving forward.”

Plum’s perspective is shaped by experience — and contrast.

She remembers early days in the league that looked far different from today’s product.

“I remember when we were practicing at the YMCA,” she said. “We’d get kicked off at 2 o’clock for 16 and over dodgeball. Flying Southwest, playing back-to-back. So I’m just really proud.”

Now, she sees a league where incoming players are stepping into what she calls a new baseline. “This is a standard,” Plum said.

“This is how professional athletes — particularly women — are treated. And it’s only going to continue to elevate the quality of the game.” That evolution is something Plum is now helping guide firsthand with the Los Angeles Sparks, particularly as the team integrates a young roster still learning its system.

Rather than focusing solely on performance, Plum says her leadership starts with something simpler: support. “When I was a young player, I just wanted to be supported and empowered,” she said. “So that’s what I try to do.”

She’s been especially impressed with the team’s rookies, noting their ability to quickly adjust and respond to mistakes without losing confidence. “They fix it right away. They don’t hang their heads,” Plum said. “I think when you’re young, sometimes you wonder why you’re here. It’s my job to reinforce that you do belong.”

On the court, Plum expects physical play to remain a factor this season, even as officiating continues to be a point of emphasis across the league. “I’m going to do everything I can to play through it,” she said. “I’m not someone that’s a flopper. I take pride in playing the right way.”

At the same time, she acknowledged the challenges referees face, choosing instead to focus on maintaining composure. “I’m just trying to be joyful, have a great attitude, and play the right way,” Plum said. “And hopefully get rewarded based on that.”

Off the court, Plum’s message is just as intentional — especially in a moment she describes as overwhelming for many. Her approach centers on mindset.

“Right now I’m focusing on PMA — positive mental attitude,” she said. “You can choose your words carefully. Sometimes you’re not having the best day, but you can speak a better day into existence.”

It’s a philosophy she says has helped her navigate both basketball and life, and one she hopes resonates beyond the game.

“Your words are powerful,” Plum said. “Your subconscious is always paying attention.”