Mercury’s Kelsey Plum catches Dream’s Karl Smesko in a fast-break bear hug

Kelsey Plum suited up for her second game with the Phoenix Mercury, as they visited the Atlanta Dream at Gateway Center on Wednesday.

Plum had a stirring debut for the Mercury on Monday, scoring 20 points on 6-of-10 shooting in 21 minutes off the bench in their win over the Chicago Sky, 106-101, at Wintrust Arena. She also sank a crucial three-pointer with 53 seconds left.

The Dream also offered a tough challenge. But the contest also had a light moment in the fourth quarter. Plum was trying to catch the ball on a fast break when she ran out of space and had to bear hug Atlanta coach Karl Smesko to stop her momentum and avoid crashing on the sideline.

Kelsey Plum jumped into the arms of Dream head coach Karl Smesko after this play pic.twitter.com/pIa0gVew5C

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 6, 2026

Everyone had a good laugh, although Smesko looked a little embarrassed.

He, however, should be really happy since they beat the Mercury, 96-82, for their sixth win in seven games. Atlanta improved to 19-11, while Phoenix fell to 12-20.

Plum, who made her first start for the Mercury, finished with 19 points on 6-of-10 shooting, five rebounds, and four assists.

Alyssa Thomas had 17 points, five rebounds, and seven assists, while DeWanna Bonner added 11 points and 11 rebounds. Kahleah Copper chipped in 14 points and five assists.

Rhyne Howard led the Dream with 23 points, six rebounds, eight assists, and two steals. Angel Reese had her 21st double-double of the season with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

Phoenix only shot 41% from the field, including 7-of-24 from long distance. Atlanta led by as much as 20 points.

The Mercury will return to action on Friday against the Connecticut Sun.

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