Kelsey Plum’s Bold Move Paying Off

Kelsey Plum made a bold choice this offseason by leaving the Las Vegas Aces, and it seems to be turning out well for her. She is playing for the Los Angeles Sparks, who, while not playoff contenders just yet, find themselves one game away from the postseason.

Currently, the Sparks trail the Aces by just 1.5 games, and Plum is shining in her role. This season, the 30-year-old guard is averaging 20.1 points, 5.9 assists, and 1.7 steals. Both her assists and steals are at career highs, though she’s also nearly matching her best scoring average from last year.

The Sparks are on a hot streak, having won five consecutive games. They recently edged out the New York Liberty thanks to a last-second shot from Rikkea Jackson.

Other Contributors to the Sparks’ Success

But it’s not just Plum making waves; three other Sparks players are also averaging double-digit points. Daika Hamby is contributing 17.6 points along with 8 rebounds and 3.5 assists, while Azura Stevens is adding 14.9 points and 8.6 rebounds, with Jackson chipping in 13.6 points and 3 rebounds.

Every game seems to bring a new standout performance. For instance, Hamby scored 24 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in a win against the Washington Mystics on July 22, and Plum erupted for 30 points and six assists in a victory over the Connecticut Sun on July 24. Jackson also had a noteworthy game with 24 points and a game-winning shot just a couple of days later.

Cameron Brink’s Anticipated Return

Looking ahead, the Sparks are set to gain another boost with the expected return of Cameron Brink in 2024. She tore her ACL last summer but is now nearing a comeback, according to Sparks head coach Lynn Roberts, who mentioned that Brink has been getting back into game shape after a 13-month recovery.

Before her injury, Brink was recognized as one of the top defenders in the WNBA. Right now, the Sparks are struggling defensively, sitting at the bottom of the league in defensive efficiency. Brink’s past accolades, including being named Defensive Player of the Year in college, could significantly improve the situation.

The Sparks haven’t made the playoffs since 2020, marking the longest postseason drought in franchise history. However, if they can put the right pieces together during the final stretch of the regular season, that might very well change this fall.