It was supposed to be Paige Bueckers’ moment, the reigning queen of college hoops stepping onto the WNBA stage for the first time. But as the league’s newest rookie found her footing, a seasoned star reminded everyone what greatness looks like in the pros. The 2025-26 WNBA season tipped off on Friday, May 16, with plenty of attention on fresh faces, but it was Kelsey Plum, in a brand-new jersey, who stole the show.
Her record-breaking debut for the Los Angeles Sparks turned heads, rewrote the books, and left no doubt — she’s here to dominate.
Kelsey Plum Makes a Statement in Record-Setting Sparks Debut
The three-time WNBA All-Star made a big impact right away. In her first regular-season game with the Sparks, Plum erupted for 37 points, including 26 in the second half, and completely took over the contest. The LA team cruised to an 84-67 win, spoiling the much-hyped debut of the expansion Golden State Valkyries.
After winning two championships in her final three years with the Las Vegas Aces, Plum came to Los Angeles in a three-team offseason deal. There were questions about how quickly she’d adjust. She answered all of them with one of the most dominant opening-night performances in WNBA history.
The veteran guard added six assists and five steals to her stat line, playing both ends of the floor like someone who had something to prove. She took control in the third quarter, helping L.A. build a 15-point lead.
Her performance wasn’t just electric — it was historic. According to the WNBA, Plum’s 37 points marked the highest scoring total in a season opener in league history. The previous record of 34 was held by legends like Maya Moore, Candace Parker, and Katie Smith.
Kelsey Plum's Sparks debut:
37 PTS
6 AST
5 STLFirst player in WNBA history to reach those numbers in a game.pic.twitter.com/1uO2ysu0p6
— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA)
That same night, Napheesa Collier matched the 34-point mark for the Minnesota Lynx in their win over Bueckers and the Dallas Wings. But within hours, Plum had shattered it.
Plum Ruined Valkyries Debut
Friday was a big day for the WNBA. The Valkyries officially played their first game as the league’s newest franchise, and Bueckers made her long-awaited leap to the pros. But their arrivals were quickly overshadowed by a player who’s already mastered the league’s pace and pressure.
Plum was all smiles after the game, soaking in both the win and the moment.
“I mean, I envisioned to win,” Plum said. “It was an incredible atmosphere. You know, a lot to work on, but yeah it was really fun. I love playing basketball!”
The Valkyries struggled to contain Los Angeles’ veteran backcourt, and it was clear they had a long road ahead. They gave up a franchise-worst 37 points in one game — and it was their first.
Meanwhile, Bueckers had a quiet night with just 10 points, showing flashes but not yet fully finding her rhythm. That’s expected for a rookie, especially on opening night. But it only made Plum’s dominance stand out even more.
The Sparks couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season or a bigger tone-setter than their newest star. The two-time champ may be in a new city, but she’s bringing the same fire.
