LOS ANGELES, CA — WNBA standout Kelsey Plum has officially launched a verified AI digital twin, effectively outsourcing her entire public persona to an algorithm. The pioneering athlete announced the development, confirming that the AI version of herself is now fully capable of handling fan interactions, brand endorsements, and even offering strategic advice on hair and beverage choices.

“Frankly, it was exhausting being Kelsey Plum all the time,” stated a representative for Plum, who wished to remain anonymous but bore an uncanny resemblance to a discarded gym sock. “The AI doesn’t need sleep, doesn’t get jet lag, and critically, doesn’t have to pretend to care about your fantasy league picks. It’s a win-win.”

Industry experts are hailing the move as a significant leap forward in athlete-brand management. “Why pay a human millions when a chatbot can generate endless, perfectly curated, brand-safe content?” asked Dr. Chip Algorithm, Head of Digital Athlete Replication at Silicon Valley’s 'Self-Optimization Solutions.' “The AI Kelsey can engage with fans 24/7, never miss a photo op, and probably has better takes on basketball than actual Kelsey after a long flight.”

Sources close to Plum indicate that the real athlete is currently enjoying an unprecedented level of personal freedom, reportedly spending her days perfecting the art of staring blankly at walls and contemplating the existential dread of modern existence. The AI, meanwhile, is already fielding sponsorship offers for its ability to flawlessly simulate human emotion.