The Phoenix Mercury acquired Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks before Sunday's WNBA trade deadline. Phoenix sent guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick to L.A. in the deal.
On Monday, Plum joined the Mercury for the first time before her team debut against the Chicago Sky. The All-Star guard spoke to the media and shared how she felt about joining the historic franchise.
Plum expressed excitement about being part of the Mercury, adding that she's "super grateful" to be welcomed and embraced by the franchise.
The 31-year-old also shared that the franchise's greatest player ever, widely considered the WNBA GOAT, Diana Taurasi, even sent her a message to show her some love prior to her arrival in Phoenix.
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"She [Taurasi] actually texted me today and just said there's no one she'd rather have," Plum said of Taurasi's message to her. "I'm just very honored and, you know, just excited to go out there and compete."
For what it's worth, Plum certainly made Taurasi proud with her impressive debut for the Mercury.
The two-time WNBA champion was able to quickly adjust to her new team, as she finished with 20 points on 6-of-10 shooting. It was a highly efficient and productive night for Plum, who also recorded four assists in 20 minutes of action.
Plum also drained a clutch 3-point shot to give the Mercury a 103-101 lead with 53 seconds remaining.
She had the best plus-minus rating on the team (+12) in the game, further highlighting her massive impact on the victory.
