For the WNBA’s newest expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries, finding the right face of the franchise will be crucial for establishing their identity and building a strong fan base. Kelsey Plum is an ideal candidate to lead this new chapter in women’s basketball, bringing a unique combination of skill, charisma, and proven success that could help launch the Valkyries into popularity.
Proven WNBA Excellence
Kelsey Plum’s journey from a remarkable collegiate athlete to an esteemed professional in the WNBA shows her dedication and skill. She was the number one overall pick in 2017 and has evolved into one of the WNBA’s most dynamic players.
In 2022, she had a breakthrough season and helped lead the Las Vegas Aces to their first WNBA championship. Her scoring average has consistently improved, demonstrating both her work ethic and ability to adapt at the professional level. Listed below are a few of Plum’s accomplishments and stats that make her a valuable asset for the Valkyries.
- Two time WNBA All-Star (2022, 2023)
- All-WNBA 1st Team (2022)
- All-Star MVP (2022)
- Averages over 17 points per game and 4 assists since 2022
- In the 2024 season, she averaged 2.9 made three-pointers per game with a 36.8% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
- 2 Olympic Gold Medals for USA
Electrifying Point Guard Play
Plum’s style of play perfectly matches what a new franchise needs to attract fans. Her quick handles, sharp shooting, and ability to create plays in transition generate the kind of highlights that draw casual fans into the game.
- Scoring Ability: Plum combines deadly shooting with the ability to drive to the basket, making her a consistent offensive threat. She isn’t afraid to take and make deep three-pointers, bringing excitement and explosive moments to every game.
- Playmaking: She has exceptional court vision and the ability to create plays for her teammates, making her an all-around floor general. Her speed and ball-handling skills allow her to navigate through defenses, often leading to highlight-reel moves and assists.
- Aggressive Style: Plum’s fearless approach to attacking the basket and her ability to draw fouls make her a constant offensive presence.
- Fan Engagement: With her flashy style, Plum generates plenty of social media-worthy highlights, getting fans out of their seats and adding energy to the game.
Opportunity for an Enhanced Role
While Plum has thrived with the Aces, the team’s abundance of star power sometimes means sharing the spotlight with players like A’ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray.
Leading the Valkyries would give her the opportunity to fully showcase her abilities as the primary option, potentially elevating her game to new heights. This increased responsibility could appeal to her competitive nature while providing the Valkyries with a proven winner.
The Star Power to Launch the Valkyries
Kelsey Plum, one of the WNBA’s brightest stars with 1.2 million Instagram followers, is the ultimate name to put the Valkyries on the map. As a household name and elite scorer, having Plum as the face of the team would instantly give the franchise credibility and star power. She could drive attention through viral campaigns, exclusive merch drops, and partnerships with brands that get people talking—all while building a strong team identity from day one.
In today’s digital-first world, Plum’s engaging personality and active social media presence make her the perfect ambassador for a new team. She’s mastered the balance of growing her personal brand while staying authentic and relatable. On top of that, her gold medal-winning experience in 3×3 basketball at the Tokyo Olympics adds international appeal, making her a magnet for fans in the Bay Area’s diverse, multicultural community. With Plum leading the charge, the Valkyries would be set to soar.
Leadership and Team Presence
Kelsey Plum brings leadership that any new team would kill for. As Washington’s all-time leading scorer and the NCAA Division I scoring leader for seven years (until Caitlin Clark took the title in 2024), she’s proven she can carry a program. She’s even got startup experience, having joined the San Antonio Stars before they evolved into the Las Vegas Aces.
Her competitive fire, work ethic, and positive energy set the tone for teammates, creating the kind of chemistry that helps new franchises grow fast. Plus, her time playing alongside stars in Vegas has taught her exactly what it takes to build a championship culture from scratch.
Bay Area Connection
The Bay Area’s basketball culture, known for appreciating skilled guard play and three-point shooting, aligns perfectly with Plum’s style. Her game would resonate with fans who have watched Stephen Curry revolutionize basketball with the Golden State Warriors. Plum is a west coast native who played college basketball in the Pac-12. She understands the region’s basketball culture and would likely connect well with the local community.
