BREAKING NEWS: Washington Announces Retirement of Kelsey Plum’s No. 10 Jersey in Historic Ceremony
Washington Announces Retirement of Kelsey Plum’s No. 10 Jersey in Historic Ceremony
Washington D.C., January 2, 2025 — In a groundbreaking move that reverberated through the sports world, the Washington Mystics announced today that they will be retiring the No. 10 jersey of Kelsey Plum, one of the franchise’s most electrifying and impactful players in recent history. The historic ceremony will take place during the Mystics’ season opener at the Capital One Arena on May 19, 2025.
Plum, who joined the Mystics in 2022 after a standout career with the Las Vegas Aces, quickly established herself as a star both on and off the court. Her unmatched scoring ability, leadership, and relentless work ethic propelled the Mystics to new heights, leading them to the WNBA Finals and cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in the league.
“It is an overwhelming honor to have my No. 10 jersey retired by such a prestigious franchise,” said Plum during a heartfelt press conference held at the Mystics’ training facility. “Washington welcomed me with open arms, and to see this recognition for my contributions to the team is truly humbling. I can’t thank the fans, my teammates, and the coaching staff enough. This moment is as much about them as it is about me.”
The decision to retire Plum’s jersey was made by the team’s ownership and coaching staff after several months of deliberation. Mystics’ owner Sheila Johnson and head coach Eric Thibault both expressed unanimous support for the move.
“Kelsey Plum is a player who transcends the game. She is an inspiration to so many young athletes, not just because of her skills on the court, but because of her commitment to the sport and her community,” said Johnson. “Her contributions to the Washington Mystics have been immeasurable, and this jersey retirement is a fitting tribute to a player who has been nothing short of exceptional.”
Plum’s career with Washington began with a bang. In her first season with the Mystics, she led the team to a thrilling WNBA Finals appearance, finishing as the team’s leading scorer and a key contributor in every aspect of the game. Her clutch performances in high-pressure moments won the admiration of fans and analysts alike. Plum also earned All-WNBA honors and was named to the All-Star team during her time with the Mystics, solidifying her place as one of the top players in the league.
In addition to her on-court achievements, Plum became a beacon of social change and community outreach. She frequently organized basketball camps for underprivileged youth, participated in mental health awareness initiatives, and used her platform to elevate causes she deeply cared about. Fans celebrated Plum not just for her incredible athleticism, but also for her authenticity and dedication to making a positive impact.
The No. 10 jersey retirement will be accompanied by a special tribute video and remarks from some of Plum’s closest teammates, as well as a surprise guest appearance from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who praised Plum’s career during the announcement. In the coming weeks, the Mystics will unveil a commemorative plaque to be displayed at the Capital One Arena alongside other franchise legends.
While Kelsey Plum’s playing career with the Mystics may be short-lived, the legacy she leaves behind will undoubtedly last for generations. Fans can expect an emotional ceremony to honor one of the brightest stars to ever grace the court for Washington.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Kelsey’s incredible journey with us,” said Thibault. “Her legacy will live on not only through her jersey but through the impact she made on our team and the sport. Kelsey embodies the heart and soul of what the Mystics are all about.”
Tickets for the jersey retirement ceremony and season opener will go on sale next week. Fans are encouraged to secure their spots early for what promises to be a historic evening in Washington sports history.
