How Many Points Did Kelsey Plum Score in College? Diving Deep into Her Record-Breaking Career
Kelsey Plum scored a phenomenal 3,527 points during her four-year collegiate career at the University of Washington, making her the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I women’s basketball at the time of her graduation. This incredible feat cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players in college basketball history.
A Basketball Prodigy: Kelsey Plum’s Early Years
Kelsey Plum’s journey to basketball stardom began long before her record-breaking college career. Her talent was evident from a young age, making her a highly sought-after recruit. Plum wasn’t just a scorer; she was a complete player.
- She developed a diverse skillset early on, combining exceptional shooting with impressive court vision and passing ability.
- Her competitive spirit and tireless work ethic set her apart from her peers.
- Before college, she displayed high performance at a local level.
Her upbringing and supportive family played a crucial role in nurturing her passion and providing the resources she needed to excel. Her dedication translated into an unstoppable force on the court.
Plum’s Reign at the University of Washington
Choosing the University of Washington proved to be a pivotal decision in Kelsey Plum’s career. Her impact on the program was immediate and transformative, turning the Huskies into a national contender. Her freshman year hinted at the greatness to come, but it was her sophomore, junior, and senior seasons that truly solidified her legendary status. She quickly ascended to become the cornerstone of the program.
- Freshman Year: Immediately made an impact, earning Pac-12 Freshman of the Year honors.
- Sophomore Year: Continued her development, showcasing improved scoring and leadership.
- Junior Year: Led the Huskies to their first Final Four appearance in program history.
- Senior Year: Broke the NCAA Division I women’s basketball scoring record, earning numerous national player of the year awards.
The evolution of her game throughout her college years demonstrates her unwavering commitment to improvement. Her leadership propelled the team forward.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Breaking Down the Scoring Record
Kelsey Plum’s 3,527 points weren’t just a random accumulation; they were the product of consistent excellence and scoring prowess. Her senior season was a masterclass in offensive basketball.
| Year | Games Played | Points Scored | Points Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman | 33 | 594 | 18.0 |
| Sophomore | 33 | 676 | 20.5 |
| Junior | 36 | 833 | 23.1 |
| Senior | 35 | 1,080 | 30.9 |
| Total | 137 | 3,527 | 25.7 |
This consistency, along with her scoring explosion in her senior year, allowed her to surpass Jackie Stiles’ previous record of 3,393 points. Her scoring efficiency continued to improve year after year.
Beyond the Points: Plum’s Impact on Washington Basketball
Kelsey Plum’s impact extended far beyond the box score. She revitalized the University of Washington women’s basketball program, bringing national attention and unprecedented success to the school.
- Attendance Boost: Plum’s exciting play drew large crowds to games, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
- Recruiting Power: Her success helped attract top recruits to the program, building a foundation for future success.
- Legacy of Excellence: She inspired countless young players to pursue their basketball dreams, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence at Washington.
Her presence transformed not only the team but also the university’s overall athletic profile.
From College Star to WNBA Champion: Plum’s Professional Career
Following her stellar college career, Kelsey Plum was drafted first overall by the San Antonio Stars in the 2017 WNBA draft. After a challenging start, Plum found her stride with the Las Vegas Aces, playing a pivotal role in their 2022 WNBA Championship victory. Her grit and resilience were on full display.
- Overcoming Adversity: Plum faced early setbacks in the WNBA but persevered through hard work and determination.
- Finding Her Role: She embraced a sixth-woman role with the Aces, providing a spark off the bench and becoming a key contributor.
- Championship Success: Her performance in the 2022 WNBA Finals solidified her status as a rising star in the league.
Her transition from college superstar to professional champion demonstrates her adaptability and unwavering commitment to success. She is now an established WNBA All-Star.
The Lasting Legacy of Kelsey Plum
Kelsey Plum’s collegiate achievements will forever be etched in basketball history. Her record-breaking scoring total, combined with her leadership and impact on the University of Washington, make her a true legend of the game. The example she set as a hard-working and determined individual is one that will continue to inspire young athletes for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What year did Kelsey Plum break the NCAA scoring record?
Kelsey Plum broke the NCAA Division I women’s basketball scoring record during her senior year in 2017. This was a culmination of her consistent scoring across four years and an especially productive senior season.
Who did Kelsey Plum surpass to become the all-time leading scorer?
Kelsey Plum surpassed Jackie Stiles, who had previously held the record with 3,393 points. It was a highly anticipated moment when Plum broke the long-standing record.
What was Kelsey Plum’s highest single-game scoring total in college?
Kelsey Plum’s highest single-game scoring total was 57 points against Utah on February 25, 2017. This performance also set a single-game Pac-12 record, demonstrating her scoring prowess.
Did Kelsey Plum ever win a national championship in college?
No, Kelsey Plum did not win a national championship during her college career at the University of Washington. However, she led the Huskies to their first Final Four appearance in program history in 2016.
How many points per game did Kelsey Plum average in her senior year?
Kelsey Plum averaged an incredible 30.9 points per game during her senior year. This scoring average was a significant increase from her previous seasons and highlights her offensive dominance.
Was Kelsey Plum a consensus All-American in college?
Yes, Kelsey Plum was a consensus All-American in her senior year. Her outstanding performance earned her recognition from various organizations, solidifying her status as one of the best players in the country.
What conference did Kelsey Plum play in during college?
Kelsey Plum played in the Pac-12 Conference throughout her college career at the University of Washington. She earned multiple Pac-12 honors, including Player of the Year awards.
How many times did Kelsey Plum score over 40 points in a game during her college career?
Kelsey Plum scored over 40 points in a game 7 times during her college career. Her ability to consistently deliver high-scoring performances was a key factor in her success.
Did Kelsey Plum lead the nation in scoring during any of her college seasons?
Yes, Kelsey Plum led the nation in scoring during her senior year in 2017, averaging 30.9 points per game. This impressive feat cemented her legacy as one of the top offensive players in college basketball history.
What was Kelsey Plum’s field goal percentage during her college career?
Kelsey Plum’s career field goal percentage was 45.3%. She demonstrated a good balance between volume scoring and efficiency.
Beyond scoring, what other accolades did Kelsey Plum receive in college?
Besides the scoring record, Kelsey Plum also received many other accolades, including Pac-12 Player of the Year, Nancy Lieberman Award (given to the nation’s top point guard), and numerous All-American selections. These awards showcase her well-rounded game.
How long did Kelsey Plum hold the all-time NCAA scoring record?
Kelsey Plum held the all-time NCAA Division I women’s basketball scoring record from 2017 until 2024. Caitlin Clark surpassed Plum’s record in February 2024, ending her reign as the all-time leader.