Deja Kelly Signs Training Camp Deal with Las Vegas Aces
Former Oregon Ducks guard Deja Kelly has signed a training camp deal with the Las Vegas Aces, securing an possibility to compete for a roster spot in the WNBA. The 5-foot-8 guard from Duncanville, Texas, went undrafted last week but will now vie for a place on the Aces’ roster.
Kelly’s Collegiate Career and skill Set
Kelly played four seasons at North Carolina before transferring to Oregon for her final year of eligibility. During her time with the Ducks, she averaged 12.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, showcasing her ability as a midrange specialist and playmaker. She elevated her performance during the postseason, delivering back-to-back 20-point games. before Oregon, Kelly earned first-team All-ACC honors for three consecutive years at North Carolina.
Coach’s Praise and Future Prospects
Oregon coach Kelly Graves lauded Kelly’s work ethic and leadership, stating, “She came here, she was as humble and she worked harder than anybody. She led. Just an impressive young person. I think she’s going to help any WNBA team… I think she belongs. She’s going to do well for somebody.”
Beyond Basketball: Broadcasting Career
Along with her basketball aspirations, Kelly is also pursuing a career in broadcasting.Last year, she served as a sideline reporter for an Oregon men’s game and participated in other broadcasting roles.
What skills and experiences might Deja Kelly leverage to stand out during training camp with the Aces?
Deja Kelly Signs Training Camp deal with Las Vegas Aces
Former oregon Ducks guard Deja Kelly has signed a training camp deal with the Las Vegas Aces,securing an possibility to compete for a roster spot in the WNBA. The 5-foot-8 guard from Duncanville,Texas,went undrafted last week but will now vie for a place on the Aces’ roster.
Kelly’s Collegiate Career and skill Set
Kelly played four seasons at North Carolina before transferring to Oregon for her final year of eligibility. During her time with the Ducks, she averaged 12.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, showcasing her ability as a midrange specialist and playmaker. She elevated her performance during the postseason, delivering back-to-back 20-point games. before Oregon, Kelly earned first-team all-ACC honors for three consecutive years at North Carolina.
Coach’s Praise and Future Prospects
Oregon coach Kelly Graves lauded Kelly’s work ethic and leadership, stating, “She came here, she was as humble and she worked harder than anybody.She led. Just an notable young person. I think she’s going to help any WNBA team… I think she belongs. She’s going to do well for somebody.”
Beyond Basketball: Broadcasting Career
Along with her basketball aspirations, kelly is also pursuing a career in broadcasting.Last year, she served as a sideline reporter for an Oregon men’s game and participated in othre broadcasting roles.
Deja Kelly: Q&A
- Q: Why did Deja Kelly go undrafted?
- A: While she possessed strong skills and a proven collegiate record, some scouts may have had concerns about her size or specific aspects of her game translating to the WNBA level. The draft is also very competitive, with only a limited number of spots available each year.
- Q: What kind of player is Deja Kelly?
- A: Kelly is known for her scoring ability, particularly her midrange game. She is also a playmaker, meaning she can create opportunities for both herself and her teammates. Her time at Oregon demonstrated her ability to elevate her game in crucial moments.
- Q: What are Deja Kelly’s chances of making the Aces roster?
- A: Making a WNBA roster is tough,especially for undrafted players.Deja Kelly will need to impress the coaches during training camp by showcasing her scoring ability, playmaking skills, and work ethic. Her versatility and positive attitude, as highlighted by her coach, could be key assets.
- Q: What is Deja Kelly’s connection to broadcasting?
- A: Deja Kelly is pursuing a career in broadcasting, showcasing her versatility beyond the court. She has experience as a sideline reporter for an Oregon men’s game and other broadcasting roles, demonstrating her interest in sports media.
- Q: What is the Las Vegas Aces’ roster situation like?
- A: the Aces are the defending WNBA champions,so the roster is loaded with talent. Deja Kelly will be competing against established players for a spot,making her training camp performance even more critical.
Deja Kelly has an uphill battle, but her talent and drive give her a fighting chance to make her WNBA dream a reality. Stay tuned to see if she can make the Las Vegas Aces!
