Kelsey Plum's Firm Retort to Spike Lee's Court-side Verbal Skirmish in WNBA
Spike Lee and Kelsey Plum Engage in Trash-Talking Duel during WNBA Playoffs
Kelsey Plum, the Los Angeles Sparks star, showcased her competitive spirit during the 2025 WNBA semifinals when she engaged in a verbal bout with superfan, film director Spike Lee. The two, known for their passionate involvement in basketball, seemingly motivated each other, adding an exciting layer to the high-stakes game.
Plum didn't hesitate to return Lee's banter, regardless of the setting. Last season, when she was playing for the Las Vegas Aces, Plum verbally sparred with Lee, who was supporting the New York Liberty at the Barclays Center during Game 1 of the semifinals. The match marked a repeat of the 2023 finals, with the Liberty securing a 87-77 win over the Aces.
Spike Lee, no stranger to encouraging his teams with vocal support, switched his allegiance for the occasion, opting for the Liberty over the New York Knicks. Although Lee's fanship often extends to Madison Square Garden, namely his beloved Knicks, he decided to put on a Liberty jersey, quickly becoming a vocal critic of Plum throughout the game.
Plum, fresh from the game, unveiled that while she couldn't recall the exact words exchanged, she informed Lee to speak up louder. She maintained a positive attitude towards the encounter, appreciating Lee's presence at the game and acknowledging his support for the sport.
"It was all done in good fun," Plum said with a smile. "It's really cool that he's here. Even during the last round, it was great that he was here. I know he's a sports fan, so it says a lot that he's here, supporting the game. So, I was just having fun."
Despite the friendly rivalry, Plum's efforts weren't enough to secure a win for her team. The three-time All-Star, boasting an impressive performance with 24 points, four assists, and two rebounds, couldn't outplay the Liberty's star duo of Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart.
Ionescu, who faces off against Caitlin Clark this weekend, expressed her excitement about Lee's support during those big games, praising the New York fans' enthusiasm.
"Having him here, cheering us on, cheering us loudly – he was even talking to the refs, engaging with the players, which was really entertaining," Ionescu said. "Obviously, it's exciting to receive support from New York fans. We're aiming to bring a championship this year, and it requires the entire community's effort."
Ionescu and the Liberty successfully achieved their goal, ensuring a 3-1 series victory against the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals. They continued their winning streak with a 3-2 finish in the finals against the Minnesota Lynx, finally securing the championship.
After the heartbreaking semifinal loss, Plum was traded to the Sparks. The team currently holds a 1-3 record in the 2025 season, with Plum averaging 24 points, two rebounds, and five assists. Meanwhile, Spike Lee's beloved Knicks find themselves in a tough spot, currently trailing the Indiana Pacers 0-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Kelsey Plum, despite her WNBA rivalry with Spike Lee, appreciated his sports fanaticism, acknowledging his support extended to basketball leagues such as the NBA and the F1. In contrast, Spike Lee, known for his interest in the Knicks, showcased his versatile love for sports by donning a Liberty jersey and vocalizing his support during the WNBA semifinals. Recently, the New York Football Giants, team that Spike Lee has supported in the NFL, faced off against the Dallas Cowboys, reminding fans of his extensive sports fandom.
