Deja Kelly is proving to the world what UNC women’s basketball fans have known all along: she’s a WNBA-caliber talent. In the Aces’ preseason finale, the former Tar Heel delivered an outstanding performance off the bench, scoring 15 points on an efficient 5-of-7 shooting. Even more impressive, Kelly closed out the game with four straight baskets, including the game-winning jumper that sealed an 85-84 victory over the Phoenix Mercury.
In just two preseason games, Deja Kelly made an immediate impact off the bench for the Aces. Averaging only 9 minutes per game, she led all reserves in scoring and shot an impressive 75% from the field. As seen in the video above, fans were treated to a signature moment — the classic Deja Kelly jumper from the top of the key, as smooth and beautiful as ever.
Deja Kelly was one of the more surprising names left off the board in the 2025 WNBA Draft. But as an undrafted free agent, she’s taken that disappointment and turned it into motivation—proving she absolutely belongs in the league. With her standout preseason performance, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where she doesn’t earn a spot on the Aces’ opening-day roster.
If Las Vegas chooses to move on—a decision that would raise eyebrows—it’s almost certain other teams will come calling. In professional sports, success often comes down to seizing the moment, and Kelly has done exactly that. Going undrafted may not have been part of her plan, but she’s responded with poise, production, and the kind of play that demands attention.
Make no mistake: Deja Kelly deserves a place in the WNBA. And if the Aces are smart, they’ll keep her. She may just turn out to be the steal of the undrafted class.
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