Tempers flared Saturday afternoon as Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum was ejected midway through the third quarter during the team’s 2026 WNBA preseason exhibition against the Nigerian Women’s National Team at Viejas Arena.
With the Sparks leading 62-48, Plum drove aggressively to the basket and was denied what she believed was a clear foul. The two-time WNBA champion immediately voiced her frustration to the officials, slamming the ball to the floor in disbelief. What began as a heated argument quickly escalated when Plum received a technical foul. Seconds later, after continuing to protest the no-call, she was hit with a second technical, resulting in an automatic ejection.
Teammates Dearica Hamby and Erica Wheeler stepped in to calm the 31-year-old All-Star as she stormed toward the locker room, visibly upset. The crowd of over 8,000 fans reacted with a mix of boos directed at the referees and chants supporting Plum.
Plum, who signed a one-year deal worth $999,999 with the Sparks earlier this month to help build a contending roster, had been electric before the incident. She tallied 17 points, 6 assists, and 2 steals in just 18 minutes, showcasing the scoring punch and leadership the franchise expects from their backcourt star.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons, featuring several players with WNBA experience, delivered a spirited performance full of physical defense and fast-break opportunities. The African squad kept the game competitive in the first half, capitalizing on transition buckets and forcing several Sparks turnovers.
Sparks head coach expressed mixed emotions after the 98-81 victory. “Kelsey is a fierce competitor who hates losing even a single possession,” the coach said. “We’ll address the emotions internally, but her passion is exactly what we need this season.”
The ejection marks an early talking point in what promises to be an intense preseason for the Sparks. Plum is expected to rejoin the team for upcoming exhibitions as Los Angeles prepares for the 2026 WNBA regular season.
Fans flooded social media with divided reactions—many praising Plum’s fire while others called for better composure in a non-league game.