PHOENIX –The Phoenix Mercury have had the busiest offseason in the WNBA, losing a cornerstone of their franchise in Brittney Griner as she signed with the Atlanta Dream earlier this week. Only hours before her departure, Phoenix acquired five-time All-Star Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for Natasha Cloud, Rebecca Allen, and the #12th pick in this year’s draft.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!However, the Mercury aren’t done making moves as they acquired another All-Star in Dallas Wings forward Satou Sabally in a three-team trade, according to ESPN women’s basketball insider Alexa Philippou. The 2nd overall pick in the 2020 draft has been a member of the Wings franchise for the past five seasons.
BREAKING: the Phoenix Mercury are acquiring Satou Sabally from the Dallas Wings in three-team trade, sources tell me and @alexaphilippou
One of the top free agents, Sabally made her desire to leave Dallas known, but because she is a cored player it had to be done via trade. pic.twitter.com/dU48MhvT7V
— Kendra Andrews (@kendra__andrews) January 31, 2025
Sabally was one of the top free agents in the free agency class and told the franchise about her desire to leave. The Wings were able to accommodate her wishes as she finds a new home with the Mercury.
In Dallas, Sabally racked up two All-Star bids and was elected for most improved in the 2023 season, increasing her scoring total by 7.3 points.
Last year, in 15 games, the former Oregon Duck averaged 17.9 points a night, shooting 45.2% from beyond the arc. Sabally has had injury issues, most recently recovering from shoulder surgery.
She returned after the Olympic break, where she played for the national German team. However, her injury history is extensive. During her 5-year career, she has had only one season with more than 17 games played. Sabally’s on-court ability is undeniable, but the main concern is staying on it.
Aug 4, 2024; Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France; Germany forward Satou Sabally (0) controls the ball against United States guard Jackie Young (13) in the second half in a women’s group C game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Regardless, the Mercury needed more shooting and dynamic scoring with the departure of Griner, Cloud, and possibly the retirement of guard Diana Taurasi. Sabally fills that role perfectly, and if healthy, she will be a huge part of Phoenix’s success next season.
