In a shocking display of intra-team friction, Las Vegas Aces guards Kelsey Plum and Chennedy Carter have each been slapped with $10,000 fines by the WNBA for “confronting and directing inappropriate language” toward one another during Sunday’s lopsided 75-107 loss.
The incident occurred late in the third quarter as the Aces trailed by more than 20 points. Witnesses described a visibly frustrated Plum approaching Carter near the bench area after a defensive breakdown, leading to an animated exchange that included audible profanity. Officials quickly intervened, but the damage was done. League officials confirmed the fines Monday morning, citing violations of the league’s player conduct policy.
Plum, a veteran leader and former champion with the Aces, has been vocal about team chemistry issues this season. Carter, known for her fiery competitive edge, joined Las Vegas as a key addition expected to bolster the backcourt. Instead, the pair’s clash has raised questions about internal chemistry just months into the new campaign.
Head coach Becky Hammon downplayed the event in a post-game press conference. “We’re a competitive group. Emotions run high, especially in a tough loss like that,” Hammon said. “Both players are professionals. They’ll move forward and focus on what matters—getting better as a team.”
The Aces were dominated from start to finish, shooting a dismal 38% from the field while committing 18 turnovers. Opponents exploited defensive miscommunications, several of which appeared to involve Plum and Carter failing to rotate effectively. Plum finished with 14 points and 6 assists, while Carter posted 12 points but struggled with efficiency.
Sources close to the team suggest the fines, while significant, are meant as a deterrent rather than a lasting punishment. Both players are expected to address the media later this week. Plum took to social media late Sunday night with a cryptic message: “Growth comes from discomfort. We lock in.”
The Aces, once perennial contenders, now sit with a losing record and must quickly resolve locker room issues if they hope to salvage the season. League insiders view the fines as a clear message: personal conflicts will not be tolerated, even among teammates.