10 Moments That Made Kelsey Plum a WNBA Star

These 10 moments trace the rise of Kelsey Plum from overlooked reserve to full-blown WNBA star, one clutch performance at a time.

Alyana Aguja
July 3, 2025
4 min read

10 Moments That Made Kelsey Plum a WNBA Star — Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Kelsey Plum’s journey is a story of resilience, reinvention, and raw determination. From battling through injury to becoming an All-Star MVP and Olympic champion, she has rewritten what it means to be both a scorer and a leader. Her rise didn’t happen overnight — but every big game, every bounce back, and every fearless shot helped her carve her place in WNBA history.

1. 2022 All-Star Game MVP – July 10, 2022

David Banks-Imagn Images

In her first All-Star appearance, Plum dropped 30 points, tying the second-highest scoring output in All-Star history. Her silky handles and deep shooting range were on full display, commanding respect from even the most seasoned veterans. That night in Chicago, she went from “promising” to “proven.”

2. Career-High 32 Points vs. New York Liberty – 2023

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

In a back-and-forth showdown, Plum erupted for 32 points, including seven three-pointers, showing no hesitation in taking big shots late. Her confidence oozed from the moment she crossed half court, torching defenders with a smile. It was the kind of game that turns heads around the league — and silences critics.

3. Clutch Fourth Quarter vs. Chicago Sky – 2022

Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Facing the defending champions, Plum scored 10 of her 24 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Aces secure a gritty road win. When the Sky turned up the pressure, she didn’t blink, knocking down tough midrange shots and drawing fouls like a seasoned vet. She was the calm in the chaos, the closer every team dreams of.

4. First Career Double-Double vs. Los Angeles Sparks – 2021

Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

With 17 points and 10 assists off the bench, Plum orchestrated the Aces’ offense like a maestro. Every dish came with vision and purpose, elevating her teammates and shifting momentum with poise. It was the night she proved she could be both a scorer and a floor general.

5. 22-Point Explosion in the 2021 Playoffs vs. Phoenix Mercury – 2021

Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Plum came off the bench with a vengeance, lighting up the Mercury with her relentless drives and off-the-dribble threes. Despite the playoff pressure, she played with joy and aggression, fearless in every moment. It wasn’t just a good performance — it was a statement.

6. Comeback Game After Achilles Injury – vs. Seattle Storm

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Plum returned to the court after missing the entire 2020 season with a torn Achilles, scoring eight points in limited minutes. Her movement, quickness, and confidence signaled a full recovery, and her emotional postgame interview revealed how much the journey meant. The basketball world saw not just a player, but a fighter.

7. Sixth Woman of the Year Award – 2021 Season

Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images

Averaging 14.8 points and 3.6 assists off the bench, Plum brought starter-level intensity and efficiency in every game. She accepted her role without ego and elevated it to something electric. The award wasn’t just about stats — it was about heart, humility, and impact.

8. Big Game vs. Connecticut Sun – 2022

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Against the league’s toughest defense, Plum hung 20 points and dished seven assists, slicing through traps and showing off her deep bag of tricks. She read defenders like open books and punished every overplay. In a heavyweight matchup, she looked like the sharpest weapon on the floor.

9. 2023 Season Opener vs. Seattle Storm – 2023

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Plum set the tone early with 23 points and five assists, looking like a player ready to chase another title. Her energy was magnetic, her decision-making razor-sharp. It wasn’t just a win — it was a reminder that her star power hadn’t faded one bit.

10. Gold Medal Performance at Tokyo Olympics – August 7, 2021 (3x3 Final vs. ROC)

Andrew Nelles-Imagn Images

Representing Team USA in the inaugural 3x3 Olympic basketball event, Plum led her squad to gold with clutch buckets and fearless drives. She was the emotional engine of the team, her competitive fire lighting up every possession. That gold medal wasn’t just a victory — it was proof she belonged on the world stage.