In an unexpected twist that could send shockwaves through Miami’s January plans, Las Vegas Aces guard Kelsey Plum announced her withdrawal from the inaugural season of the Unrivaled basketball league. One might say the league’s star power just dimmed a bit—or at least temporarily hit the bench.
Plum, a two-time WNBA champion, three-time All-Star, and all-around bucket-getter, shared the news on her Instagram story, telling fans and followers, “I’ve decided to not take part in the inaugural season of Unrivaled to take some more time for myself this offseason.” Translation? Even a walking highlight reel like Plum occasionally needs to pass the ball to self-care.
She gracefully added, “I appreciate the league understanding and being so accommodating. I wish the league and all of the players nothing but the best and I’m excited to watch!” While Plum’s excitement to spectate is admirable, one wonders if the other players are quite as jazzed about losing their marquee draw.
From Plum to “Laces Club Lite”
Before bowing out, Plum was slated to lead the Laces Club under the guidance of coach Andrew Wade, assistant coach for the Washington Mystics. Her departure now leaves the team with five players—just enough for a squad, though you can bet they’ll be rethinking their game plan.
Plum’s former teammates include Kayla McBride (Minnesota Lynx), Alyssa Thomas (Connecticut Sun), Courtney Williams (Minnesota Lynx), Kate Martin (Las Vegas Aces), and Stefanie Dolson (Washington Mystics). With Plum gone, the Laces join the Lunar Owls and Phantom clubs as Unrivaled teams now playing the “wildcard” game of figuring out their sixth player.
So, What Are We Missing Out On?
For context, Plum just wrapped up a 2023 WNBA season where she averaged a cool 17.8 points, 4.2 assists, and the kind of energy you wish you could bottle and sell. Oh, and she casually picked up an Olympic gold medal in Paris during her summer break. Seven years in the league, and she’s still the definition of “walking bucket.”
And now, instead of dazzling us with no-look passes and mid-range daggers in Unrivaled, Plum is choosing to focus on… herself. It’s understandable, of course. But fans may be left wondering: Is “self-care” code for avoiding Miami traffic or binge-watching her favorite series?
Star-Studded League Still on Track
While Plum’s exit stings, Unrivaled is far from devoid of talent. The remaining teams boast an all-star roster:
- Vinyl Club: Featuring Arike Ogunbowale, Rhyne Howard, and rookie sensation Aliyah Boston. Coached by Teresa Weatherspoon—so you know they’ll bring the heat.
- Mist Club: Home to Breanna Stewart, Jewell Loyd, and Courtney Vandersloot. If basketball had Avengers, this might be it.
- Rose Club: Where Chelsea Gray and Kahleah Copper promise to make defenders cry.
- Lunar Owls and Phantom Club: Teams so stacked that Natasha Cloud and Jackie Young might take Plum’s departure as a chance to dominate.
With Unrivaled tipping off January 17 in Miami, fans can look forward to three nights a week of fast-paced 3-on-3 action. The league, lasting just eight weeks, is a basketball buffet that promises high-flying plays and probably a bit of friendly trash talk.
The Bigger Picture
Plum’s absence may be a curveball, but Unrivaled is still shaping up as a game-changer for women’s professional basketball. And while fans would have loved to see Plum unleash her trademark style, her decision to step back reminds us that even the fiercest competitors need a breather.
As for Kelsey Plum? She’ll be courtside—or at least couchside—cheering on her peers. And perhaps plotting her next dazzling comeback. Because let’s be honest, Plum isn’t the type to stay out of the spotlight for long.
