As Kelsey Plum steps into WNBA free agency this offseason, the rumor mill is buzzing louder than a Vegas slot machine on a jackpot streak. After seven electrifying years with the Las Vegas Aces, the All-Star guard could be packing her bags for a new adventure. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill transfer chatter—it’s a saga featuring billionaires, reunions, and an expansion franchise ready to make a statement.
Golden State Valkyries Enter the Chat
Back in December, the WNBA hosted an expansion draft to help the league’s shiny new team, the Golden State Valkyries, assemble their inaugural roster. Fast forward to free agency season, and the Valkyries are reportedly eyeing a splashy acquisition. Enter Plum, a player so versatile she could probably win a game of chess while dropping 20 points on the court.
Seerat Sohi of The Ringer WNBA Podcast didn’t shy away from speculation when discussing the Valkyries’ potential targets:
(16:27) “We had Natalie [Nakase] on the pod a couple weeks ago, and what really stood out is how much she values competitiveness. And honestly, when you think about someone who sets that tone, it’s hard to top Kelsey Plum.”
Plum reuniting with her former Aces assistant coach, Natalie Nakase, sounds like a script Hollywood would greenlight. Nakase, now the Valkyries’ head coach, knows Plum’s game inside and out. Add Golden State’s billionaire owner, Joe Lacob, to the equation—a man who’s made it clear he’ll pay top dollar for excellence—and suddenly, the Valkyries look like a very attractive suitor.
Vegas Isn’t Folding Its Hand Yet
Of course, the Las Vegas Aces aren’t about to let Plum waltz out the door without a fight. The reigning champs have reportedly extended Plum a “core” qualifying offer—a one-year deal at the WNBA max salary. Translation? “We’d rather lose our slot machine privileges than let you go.”
This move signals the Aces’ intent to keep their core intact, even as other teams hover like vultures. Plum’s resume speaks for itself: No. 1 overall pick in 2017, a Sixth Woman of the Year award in 2021, multiple All-Star appearances, and a championship to her name. Her 2024 season stats—17.8 points, 4.2 assists, and enough highlight reels to crash a server—underscore her value.
A Billionaire, a New Franchise, and a Cultural Reset
The Valkyries’ potential pursuit of Plum isn’t just about star power; it’s about building a winning culture from Day 1. Nakase has already laid the groundwork, and adding a player like Plum could supercharge the process. She’s the type of player who thrives under pressure, whether it’s on the court or bantering with teammates off it.
And let’s not forget Lacob, whose $2.1 billion net worth means he could probably buy the entire WNBA if he felt like it. If he’s as committed to the Valkyries as he is to his other team, the Golden State Warriors, expect this franchise to make waves.
What’s Next for Plum?
Will Kelsey Plum stay in Vegas, where she’s already a household name and a fan favorite? Or will she trade the bright lights of the Strip for the Bay Area, becoming the face of a bold new franchise? Either way, Plum’s decision will send ripples through the WNBA, and fans can’t wait to see how this drama unfolds.
One thing’s for sure: Whether she’s in red and black or suiting up in Valkyries colors, Plum will remain must-watch basketball. As free agency heats up, grab your popcorn—it’s about to get spicy.