WNBA Star Kelsey Plum Exits Unrivaled League Before Inaugural Season
Kelsey Plum, a two-time WNBA champion and three-time All-Star, has unexpectedly withdrawn from Unrivaled, the new 3-on-3 women’s professional basketball league set to debut in Miami on January 17th. Plum, who was set to play for the Laces, cited the need for personal time as her reason for leaving.
"I’ve decided to not take part in the inaugural season of Unrivaled in order to take some more time for myself this offseason,” Plum said in an Instagram story. “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!”
Plum’s departure leaves the Laces, coached by Washington Mystics assistant Andrew Wade, with only four players, joining two other teams — the Lunar Owls and Phantom — with wildcard spots available just weeks before the season begins.
The Laces were initially slated to boast a powerhouse roster, featuring Plum alongside Kayla McBride (Minnesota Lynx), Alyssa Thomas (Connecticut Sun), Courtney Williams (Minnesota Lynx), Kate Martin (Las Vegas Aces), and Stefanie Dolson (Washington Mystics). This impressive lineup was expected to be a major force in the league’s inaugural season.
Plum’s absence comes after a stellar WNBA season. She averaged an impressive 17.8 points and 4.2 assists over 38 regular season games for the Las Vegas Aces before joining the U.S. Olympic team, which dominated the competition and secured gold in Paris.
The launches of Unrivaled amidst a landscape already vibrant with women’s basketball has generated significant buzz. The league boasts an impressive roster of 33 WNBA players divided amongst six clubs. Games will be played three nights a week for eight weeks, aiming to establish a fresh, fast-paced format for fans.
Beyond the Laces:
Unrivaled’s remaining teams also feature star-studded lineups ready to make their mark:
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Vinyl Basketball Club: Coached by the legendary Teresa Weatherspoon, this team includes Arike Ogunbowale (Dallas Wings), Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream), Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever), Jordin Canada (Atlanta Dream), Rae Burrell (Los Angeles Sparks), and Dearica Hamby (Los Angeles Sparks).
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Mist Basketball Club: Under the guidance of Phil Handy, this roster features Jewell Loyd (Seattle Storm), DiJonai Carrington (Connecticut Sun), Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty), Courtney Vandersloot (New York Liberty), Rickea Jackson (Los Angeles Sparks), and Aaliyah Edwards (Washington Mystics).
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Lunar Owls Basketball Club: Dallas Wings star Skylar Diggins-Smith leads a strong team alongside Allisha Gray (Atlanta Dream), Natasha Cloud (Phoenix Mercury), Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx), and Shakira Austin (Washington Mystics) under head coach DJ Sackmann.
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Rose Basketball Club: Highlighted by Chelsea Gray (Las Vegas Aces), this team also includes Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury), Angel Reese (Chicago Sky), Brittney Sykes (Washington Mystics), Lexie Hull (Indiana Fever), and Azura Stevens (Los Angeles Sparks). Coached by Nola Henry.
- Phantom Basketball Club: This squad, coached by Adam Harrington, boasts a formidable lineup including Jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces), Marina Mabrey (Connecticut Sun), Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings), Tiffany Hayes (Las Vegas Aces), and Brittney Griner (Phoenix Mercury).
While Plum’s absence is undoubtedly a blow for the Unrivaled league, the remaining talent still promises to deliver thrilling, fast-paced games for fans across the country.
## WNBA star Kelsey Plum Explains Her Departure From Unrivaled
**World-Today-News Senior Editor**: Welcome back too World-Today-News. Today, we’re speaking with WNBA star Kelsey Plum following her recent decision to withdraw from the Unrivaled league’s inaugural season.Kelsey, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us.
**Kelsey Plum**: Thanks for having me.
**WTN-SE**: Kelsey, your recent announcement about stepping away from Unrivaled surprised many people. Can you tell us more about the factors that led to this decision?
**KP**: Absolutely. While I was truly excited about being part of a groundbreaking league like Unrivaled and playing alongside some incredible athletes, I realized I need to prioritize my well-being at this time. The WNBA season is demanding,and I felt the need to take some extra time for personal growth and to recharge before next season.
**WTN-SE**: You mentioned in your statement that Unrivaled was very understanding. Can you elaborate on the support they’ve shown you?
**KP**: I truly appreciate the way the league and [League Commissioner/Founder name] handled my request. They were incredibly understanding and supportive of my decision. It speaks volumes about the kind of culture they’re building, one that values player well-being above all else.
**WTN-SE**: This new 3-on-3 format has been generating a lot of buzz. Based on your initial involvement, what are your thoughts on the potential of Unrivaled?
**KP**: Despite my departure, I am incredibly excited about Unrivaled. The league has the potential to revolutionize women’s basketball by showcasing a fast-paced, exciting style of play.I believe it will be a fantastic platform for talented players to shine and further grow the sport’s reach.
**WTN-SE**: Looking ahead, what are your plans for the off-season? What are your priorities in this time away from the court?
**KP**: This off-season is all about recharging and focusing on myself. I want to spend quality time with family and friends, explore some personal interests, and ensure I come back to the WNBA next season feeling refreshed and ready to compete at the highest level.
**WTN-SE**: Lastly, what message would you have for your fans and followers who were looking forward to seeing you play in Unrivaled?
**KP**: To my amazing fans, I truly appreciate your continued support. I know this may be disappointing news, but please know that I made this decision with careful consideration. I’m excited about what the future holds both on and off the court.
**WTN-SE**: Kelsey Plum, thank you for your honesty and candor. We wish you all the best in your endeavors.
**KP**: Thank you. It was a pleasure speaking with you.
