50 Facts About Kelsey Plum

Early Life and High School Career

Kelsey Plum's journey to basketball stardom began in San Diego, California. Her early years were marked by dedication and talent.

1. Kelsey Plum grew up in San Diego, California, and attended La Jolla Country Day School.
2. She led her high school team to a state championship in 2012.
3. Plum was an outstanding high school player, earning numerous accolades and recognition.

College Career at Washington

Choosing the University of Washington over other top programs, Plum's college career was nothing short of spectacular.

4. Plum received numerous college basketball scholarship offers, including from Stanford and Washington.
5. She chose to attend the University of Washington.
6. During her four years at Washington, Plum became one of the most prolific scorers in NCAA Division I women's basketball history.
7. In her senior season, she broke several Pac-12 records, including the all-time leading scorer record.
8. On February 25, 2017, Plum scored a Pac-12 record 57 points against Utah, breaking the NCAA Division I women's basketball career scoring record.
9. Over her collegiate career, Plum averaged 31.7 points per game, 5.1 rebounds per game, and 4.8 assists per game.
10. She shot 52.9% from the field and 42.8% from three-point range.
11. Plum led the Washington Huskies to a 29–6 record and a 15–3 mark in the Pac-12 Conference during her senior season.
12. The team made it to the regional semifinals of the NCAA tournament but was knocked out by Mississippi State.

Transition to Professional Basketball

After a stellar college career, Plum entered the professional arena, making an immediate impact.

13. Plum was drafted by the San Antonio Stars with the first overall pick in the 2017 WNBA draft.
14. She made her WNBA debut in 2017, averaging 8.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.9 rebounds per game.
15. In 2018, Plum was traded to the Las Vegas Aces, where she has played ever since.
16. Plum's success with the Aces includes winning back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023.
17. In 2022, Plum earned her first All-WNBA First Team selection.
18. She was named the WNBA All-Star Game MVP in 2022.
19. Plum has been selected to multiple WNBA All-Star Games, including in 2022 and 2023.
20. In 2021, Plum was named the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year.

International Success and Accolades

Plum's talent extends beyond the WNBA, as she has also achieved significant success on the international stage.

21. Plum has been a part of several USA Basketball teams, including the 2018 USA World Cup gold medal-winning team.
22. She won a gold medal in 5×5 basketball at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
23. Plum also won a gold medal in 3×3 basketball at the 2020 Olympics.
24. Although she did not win the WNBA Rookie of the Year award in 2017, Plum was nominated for it.
25. She was named to the WNBA All-Rookie Team in 2017.
26. In 2023, Plum won the WNBA All-Star Skills Challenge.
27. Plum was named the WNBA Western Conference Player of the Month for September 2022.

Career Statistics and Achievements

Plum's career is filled with impressive statistics and milestones that highlight her exceptional talent.

28. Throughout her WNBA career, Plum averages 14.2 points per game, 2.3 rebounds per game, and 2.5 assists per game.
29. She shoots 43% from the field and 39% from three-point range.
30. Over her seven-year WNBA career, Plum has accumulated 2,132 points, 450 assists, and 618 three-pointers made.
31. Plum has taken on a leadership role with the Las Vegas Aces, often serving as a key player and mentor to her teammates.

Off the Court

Beyond her on-court achievements, Plum is known for her contributions to the community and her personal interests.

32. Plum is involved in various community initiatives, including youth basketball camps and charity events.
33. She is active on social media platforms, engaging with fans and promoting her brand.
34. Plum is known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her craft.
35. In 2020, Plum missed the entire WNBA season due to an injury, which she has since fully recovered from.
36. Plum has been open about her mental health journey, raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health issues in sports.
37. She supports various charitable causes, including organizations focused on women's empowerment and youth development.
38. Plum has secured endorsement deals with several prominent brands.
39. She has appeared in various media outlets, including ESPN and CBS Sports.
40. Plum frequently gives interviews and writes columns for publications like The Players' Tribune.
41. Known for her engaging personality, Plum regularly interacts with fans through autograph sessions and social media Q&A sessions.

Legacy and Impact

Plum's influence on women's basketball extends beyond her individual achievements, inspiring future generations.

42. There have been rumors about Plum’s potential interest in coaching after her playing career.
43. Plum’s impact on women’s basketball extends beyond her individual achievements.
44. During her time at Washington, Plum earned numerous Pac-12 Conference honors, including being named the Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2017.
45. Despite not leading her team to a Final Four appearance, Plum’s collegiate career included several NCAA tournament appearances.
46. Plum achieved several career milestones during her time at Washington, including becoming the first player in Pac-12 history to reach 3,000 career points.
47. Her record-breaking performance against Utah in 2017 cemented her place as one of the greatest scorers in NCAA history.
48. As a senior captain at Washington, Plum demonstrated exceptional leadership skills.
49. At the professional level, Plum has received several awards and honors, including being named the WNBA All-Star Game MVP in 2022.
50. Plum uses her platform to advocate for social justice and equality, often speaking out on issues affecting women and minorities in sports and beyond.

Kelsey Plum: A Basketball Icon

Kelsey Plum's journey from high school standout to WNBA champion is nothing short of remarkable. Her record-breaking college career at the University of Washington set the stage for her professional success. Drafted first overall by the San Antonio Stars, she quickly made her mark in the WNBA, eventually becoming a key player for the Las Vegas Aces. Plum's accolades, including multiple All-Star selections, an All-WNBA First Team nod, and two WNBA championships, highlight her exceptional talent and dedication.

Beyond the court, Plum's commitment to community service, mental health awareness, and social justice makes her a role model. Her resilience in overcoming injuries and her leadership both on and off the court inspire many. As she continues to excel, Kelsey Plum's legacy in women's basketball will undoubtedly grow, inspiring future generations of athletes. Her story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and passion.