In a significant WNBA trade, Kelsey Plum moves to the Los Angeles Sparks, Jewell Loyd joins the Las Vegas Aces, and the Seattle Storm acquire key draft picks. This trade, involving multiple No. 1 overall picks, marks a pivotal moment in the league's history as teams retool for future success.
In a groundbreaking move, the WNBA has witnessed a major shake-up with a three-team trade involving some of the league's most prominent stars. Kelsey Plum, Jewell Loyd, and significant draft picks have exchanged hands among the Las Vegas Aces, Los Angeles Sparks, and Seattle Storm. This trade, notable for involving multiple No. 1 overall picks, sets the stage for a dynamic shift in team strategies as they prepare for future seasons.
Kelsey Plum, a standout guard and former No. 1 overall pick, has been traded from the Las Vegas Aces to the Los Angeles Sparks. Plum, known for her scoring ability and championship pedigree, was a crucial player for the Aces, contributing to their back-to-back WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023. Her move to the Sparks signifies a new chapter for the Los Angeles team, which is looking to revitalize its roster and return to playoff contention. With the addition of Plum, the Sparks aim to leverage her experience and leadership to guide young talents like Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the upcoming season [1] [2].
Jewell Loyd, a six-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, is now part of the Las Vegas Aces following the trade. Loyd, who spent her entire career with the Seattle Storm, brings her scoring prowess and defensive skills to a team already stacked with talent. Her arrival is expected to bolster the Aces' perimeter offense, complementing stars like A'ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray. Loyd's move comes after a tumultuous period with the Storm, where she requested a trade following allegations of harassment against the coaching staff. Despite these challenges, Loyd remains a top-tier player, and her addition to the Aces is seen as a strategic move to reclaim their championship status after falling short in 2024 [3] [4].
The Seattle Storm have opted for a strategic rebuild, acquiring the No. 2 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and center Li Yueru from the Sparks. This move signals a new era for the Storm as they look to draft a potential franchise cornerstone, possibly targeting top college prospects like Olivia Miles. The departure of Jewell Loyd marks the end of an era, but the Storm are poised to retool their roster with young talent and additional cap space. The team's focus now shifts to leveraging their draft assets and making key signings to remain competitive in the league. With potential free agent moves and draft selections, the Storm aim to lay a solid foundation for future success [5] [4].
This historic trade marks a pivotal moment in the WNBA, reshaping the competitive landscape as teams position themselves for future success. Kelsey Plum's move to the Sparks, Jewell Loyd's addition to the Aces, and the Storm's acquisition of key draft picks highlight a strategic shift in team dynamics. As the league anticipates the impact of these changes, fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with new rivalries and opportunities for emerging stars.
"We love Kelsey Plum. There’s no doubt about that." - Becky Hammon
"Loyd's arrival in Las Vegas will automatically help the Aces." - Alexa Philippou