Fans have long nicknamed Kelsey Plum the “Puerto Rican Princess,” convinced the electrifying WNBA guard shared their Caribbean roots. A new league video finally put the rumor to rest: Plum isn’t Puerto Rican at all, and the revelation has stunned supporters who felt sure they had her background pegged.
Born in Poway, California, the 29-year-old Las Vegas Aces star explained that her family tree traces back to Ireland. “I’m not Puerto Rican,” she said with an apologetic smile, noting she is “just white—Irish, actually.” Even so, she added that the warmth she receives from Puerto Rican fans makes her feel like an honorary member of the community.
Plum joked that she is happy to “be whatever y’all need me to be” when Team USA faces Puerto Rico, but emphasized that she remains proud of her Irish roots. Her easy rapport and rolled “r” in the video drew cheers online, reinforcing the bond she’s built with diverse supporters across the league.
Social media lit up with playful reactions—one commenter quipped, “She rolled her r; y’all better claim her!”—while others celebrated her openness and the broader message of embracing cultural allies in women’s basketball.
Off the court, Plum admitted the offseason has been emotionally taxing as she and NFL tight end Darren Waller move toward divorce barely a year after their wedding. Leaning on faith and focusing on a potential third straight title run, she says the trials have “refined” her and strengthened her resolve to keep shining on the hardwood.
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