Spending 2 Years on Bench, Suffering a Career Threatening Injury and Loss of Father, Kelsey Plum?s Emotions Run High for Inspiring Teammate

The Aces found themselves in dire straits following their heart-wrenching Game 3 loss to the New York Liberty. Two of their key players, All-Star point guard Chelsea Gray and the ever-reliable center Kiah Stokes, were sidelined due to debilitating foot injuries. Coach Becky Hammon,who rarely dips into her reserve players during the regular season, turned to the bench mob to make up for their absence. Beyond the illustrious starting five, only two players, 2023 Sixth Player of the Year Alysha Clark and the legendary Candace Parker, managed to muster more than 12 minutes of playing time per game. It seemed like a risky strategy, but the Aces had managed to make it work. However, with the championship on the line, it was time for the unsung heroes of the team’s bench to shine.

The Aces eked out a nail-biting 70-69 victory on a fateful Wednesday night at the electric Barclays Center. Even with their star power dimmed, the Aces secured their second consecutive championship. Meanwhile, a day after securing their WNBA title, Kelsey Plum?s emotions ran high for her inspiring teammate.

Kelsey Plum shows her respect to 3x WNBA Champion

Alysha Clark, the basketball sensation was born to Kenneth and Jan Clark in the heart of Denver, Colorado, on July 7, 1987. Her love for sports ignited during her formative years at Mt. Juliet High School, where she excelled in volleyball and track. Yet, it was her spur-of-the-moment decision to join the basketball team in her senior year that kicked off her illustrious career. During her college years, Clark suited up again for Middle Tennessee State and Belmont. Her freshman year at Belmont saw her receive the coveted honor of Freshman of the Year. But the climax of her college basketball journey came in her senior year when she shattered records and led the NCAA in scoring, averaging? 27.5 points per game.

Clark’s WNBA odyssey began in 2010 when she was selected as the 17th overall pick by the San Antonio Storm. Unfortunately, she missed the roster that year. But Clark’s wasn’t one to give up that easily. Even though she had to sit out on the WNBA for 2 years, she found her true home with the Seattle Storm in 2012. She quickly became a pivotal part of the Storm’s roster, helping the team with its championship triumphs in 2018 and 2020.

However, life threw her a curveball in February 2021 when she signed with the Washington Mystics but had to miss the entire season due to a painful Lisfranc injury to her right foot sustained while competing in France. It was only in February next season that Clark roared back into the WNBA, signing with the Las Vegas Aces as a free agent. Her impact was immediate, as she played a crucial role off the bench for the reigning champions. To crown her remarkable journey, she was honored with the prestigious 6th Player of the Year award in her 11th season in the league.

Notably, Clark turned out to be an important piece for the 2023 WNBA Champions Aces.

Most recently, WESPN shared post on Alysha Clark’s journey from her WNBA draft to becoming 3x WNBA Champion alongside Kelsey Plum and A’ja Wilson.

Clark’s teammate, Kelsey Plum shared the post on her story, showing appreciation for her the 3x WNBA champion.

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Meanwhile, as the confetti rained down and the cheers echoed through the arena, Alysha Clark broke down in remembrance of her father.

Alysha Clark dedicates 2023 season to her late father

Las Vegas Aces forward Alysha Clark emerged as the unsung hero on Wednesday night. The New York Liberty had dominated the majority of the first half, leaving Aces fans anxious about the outcome. However, Clark pulled through for the Aces in the third quarter, when her two-point basket tied the game at 51.

As the final whistle blew and the Aces secured the win, Clark’s emotions overflowed. It was a bittersweet victory. But it wasn’t just the game that brought tears to Clark’s eyes after the final buzzer. Alysha Clark’s 2023 season had a poignant backstory. Her father, Duane, had passed away in September 2022. The ’23 season was not just about basketball for Clark; it was a tribute to her late father. Unable to hold back tears, Clark remembered her late father.?He?s been with me all season, he?s been my sixth man,??she told ESPN.

She continued, ?I know he would be so happy right now. I?m just so happy, I know he?s with me. I wish he could be here. I wish I could hold him. But, this is for him, this entire season.?

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What are your thoughts on Aces clinching the WNBA title this year? Let us know in the comments below!