Tempers Rise in WNBA Game After Kelsey Plum Gets Shoved to the Ground, Before 32YO Star Explodes to End 21-Game Winning Streak

The 2023 WNBA season is unleashing more action and excitement than ever before. The league is hosting its first-ever 40-game season this year. Ahead of that, the viewership is also seeing a significant increase. With constant headline-worthy moments and intense plays, WNBA looks on the right path.

Amidst the backdrop, the recent clash between Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces encapsulated a similar energy. The recent Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces game showcased similar energy. Sparks entered the game hoping to cut ties with their ongoing 13-game losing streak. In sharp contrast, the Aces exuded confidence, riding high on a formidable 4-game winning streak.

Adding to the intensity, the Las Vegas squad was also basking in the glory of their impressive 21-game unbeaten run on home court. Coached by Curt Miller, former coach of the previous year’s finalist Connecticut Suns, Sparks came in with seasoned expertise by their side.

Kelsey Plum and Layshia Clarendon shove each other

While the Las Vegas Aces have secured their spot in the playoffs, the journey ahead for the Sparks is anything but straightforward. With over 75 percent of the games already played, the upcoming 10 matches will determine LA’s fate in the playoffs.

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With just 2 minutes and 27 seconds left in the half, both teams hung close to each other. Kelsey Plum stepped up to the free throw line to secure a crucial 36-34 lead for the Aces. In the light of competition, Layshia Clarendon moved in, intending to position herself to box out Plum. However, her left arm came into contact with Kelsey, causing the guard to tumble to the ground.

Seizing the moment, Clarendon recognized a 4-on-5 opportunity. She swiftly took possession of the inbound pass and drove toward the basket. As Kelsey trailed behind Layshia, the frustration in her steps air was palpable. In a burst of emotion, Kelsey forcefully shoved the 32-year-old shooting guard, letting her exasperation show.

As the clock stopped and referees reviewed the events, Plum was charged with a flagrant-1 foul. On the other end, Clarendon was charged with a technical foul. While Plum missed the lone free throw provided to her, Clarendon made both.?

Furthermore, Layshia followed up with a layup ahead of her free throws, giving her team the lead. The reigning champions never recovered from trailing after that. They succumbed to Clarendon’s 22 points in a 78-72 loss.?

WNBA playoffs are riddled with injuries

This season, the Los Angeles Sparks embarked on a journey of rebuilding, aiming to recapture their championship glory. After two playoff-less years, they hunger for change as they rebuild their path to success. However, unexpected challenges hindered their synergy and practice. Unlike their peers, the Sparks faced limited chances to bond and refine their gameplay due to injuries and illnesses.

Nia Clouden, a formidable presence for the team, is missing due to a shin injury. Their key starter, Lexie Brown, rests on sideling battling through a non-COVID illness. Chiney Ogwumike is healing from Achilles injury.?

Their recent win against the Aces sparks hope as they cling to the final playoff spot. However, at times, Sparks could only field eight players from their roster of twelve. This adversity forced them to experiment with 12 starting lineups in their first 20 games.

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