Kelsey Plum Reveals Reasons Behind Trade from Las Vegas Aces
Kelsey Plum has revealed she asked to be traded from the Las Vegas Aces because she no longer felt fully valued within the organization.
Details of the Trade and Personal Reasons
Speaking on Sue Bird’s podcast Birds Eye View, Plum confirmed reports that she requested the move to the Los Angeles Sparks even after the Aces offered her a contract extension. She described needing both a personal and professional fresh start, saying her upward trajectory in Las Vegas felt capped.
Personal Challenges During the Season
Plum pointed to several factors that contributed to her decision. The 2024 season — which ended for the Aces in the semifinals against the New York Liberty — coincided with Plum’s public divorce from former Raiders tight end Darren Waller. She said navigating that personal crisis during the season was one of the most difficult experiences of her life, yet she’s proud she continued to show up and perform.
Support from Coaches and Mentors
She praised coach Becky Hammon and former assistants Tyler Marsh and Natalie Nakase for protecting her privacy during ...