BREAKING NEWS: Washington to Retire Kelsey Plum’s No. 10 Jersey in Honor of Her Historic Career
Washington to Retire Kelsey Plum’s No. 10 Jersey in Honor of Her Historic Career
Washington, D.C. — In a historic and emotional move, the Washington Mystics have announced that they will retire the jersey of Kelsey Plum, the team’s iconic point guard, in a ceremony to be held later this season. Plum’s No. 10 jersey will be officially retired, solidifying her place in the franchise’s storied history and recognizing her contributions both on and off the court.
Plum, 31, has been a pillar of excellence for the Mystics since joining the team as the first overall pick in the 2017 WNBA Draft. Her dazzling career, filled with accolades and milestones, has made her one of the most celebrated players in the league’s history. Known for her lightning-fast agility, sharp shooting, and fierce competitive spirit, Plum has redefined the role of a modern point guard in the WNBA.
The announcement came on the heels of another dominant season in which Plum led the Mystics to the playoffs once again, continuing her legacy as one of the league’s premier playmakers. Over her nine seasons in the WNBA, Plum has amassed numerous individual honors, including multiple All-Star selections, All-WNBA honors, and a place among the league’s all-time leaders in assists, points, and steals.
Mystics general manager, Mike Thibault, praised Plum’s influence on and off the court, calling her a “transformative player” whose impact transcended the game. “Kelsey has done everything you could ask for as a leader and player. Her commitment to winning, her selfless nature, and her resilience in overcoming adversity have inspired not only her teammates but also the next generation of athletes. Today, we honor her legacy in a way that reflects how deeply she’s shaped this franchise,” said Thibault during a press conference on Tuesday morning.
The decision to retire Plum’s jersey was not only a recognition of her athleticism but also her tireless advocacy for women’s sports. Off the court, Plum has been a fierce advocate for equal pay, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. Her involvement with several youth programs and charity work within the D.C. community further solidified her as an influential role model, both in sports and in society at large.
Plum’s jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled for a mid-season game in early May, and the Mystics are inviting former teammates, coaches, and fans to celebrate her unforgettable contributions to the franchise. The team will also honor her with a special video tribute highlighting her career achievements, including her incredible run in the 2021 WNBA Finals, where she led Washington to its first championship in over two decades.
The moment will also be marked by a special segment featuring prominent figures from the basketball world, including former WNBA legends and those who witnessed Plum’s rise firsthand. Fans are expected to fill the Capital One Arena, as the Mystics honor a player who has become synonymous with the team’s success and growth over the past several years.
Plum’s retirement marks a significant moment in WNBA history, not only because of her individual brilliance but also due to the broader shift in the league’s growing recognition of its stars and their legacies. As women’s basketball continues to make strides in terms of visibility, respect, and recognition, players like Kelsey Plum represent the future of the sport, both on and off the court.
In an emotional statement following the announcement, Plum thanked the Mystics organization, her teammates, and the fans for their unwavering support. “I am deeply humbled by this honor. Washington will always hold a special place in my heart,” said Plum. “This is a testament to every teammate, coach, and person who believed in me. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this incredible journey.”
As the Mystics move forward, Kelsey Plum’s No. 10 will forever hang in the rafters, a testament to her unmatched contributions to the team and to the league.
