Deja Kelly is showing the world what UNC women's basketball fans have known for quite some time.
Kelly is absolutely a WNBA caliber player.
In the Aces' preseason finale, the former Tar Heel was outstanding. Coming off the bench, Kelly scored 15 points on five of seven shooting. What makes it even more impressive is this: Kelly scored four consecutive buckets at the end of regulation, including draining a game-winning jumper to secure an 85-84 victory over the Phoenix Murcury.
In two preseason games, Kelly provided a spark off the bench for the Aces. Averaging 9 minutes per-game, Kelly led all reserves in scoring while knocking down a staggering 75% of her shots from the floor.
As the video above shows, we also saw the vintage Deja Kelly jumper from the top of the key, an absolute thing of beauty.
Kelly was one of the more surprising players that didn't hear her name called during the 2025 WNBA Draft. As an undrafted free agent, Kelly has had to prove that she belongs in the league and has done just that, as it's very difficult to see a scenario in which she doesn't make the Aces' active roster to start the upcoming season.
If the Aces decide to move on (which wouldn't be a wise decision), it's safe to say that other opportunities will be there for Kelly to latch on with another team at some point.
When it comes to professional sports, you have to simply make the most of the opportunities in front of you. While going undrafted wasn't in Kelly's plans, she has responded strongly, showing the world just what she's capable of doing on a basketball court.
Just remember: Deja Kelly IS deserving of being on a WNBA roster, as she could easily be the steal of the undrafted free agent market if the Aces are wise enough to keep her around for the long haul.