PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury could be getting a key veteran back before they take on the Indiana Fever.
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Phoenix Mercury’s Sami Whitcomb (33) moves the ball while playing against Chicago Sky on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. © Samantha Laurey / Argus Leader / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Phoenix Mercury have released their status report vs. IN Fever for July 9:
Alyssa Thomas – PROBABLE (Left Foot)
Sami Whitcomb – PROBABLE (Left Knee Arthroscopy)
Natasha Mack – OUT (Left Foot)— Wendy Lopez (@wlopezde) July 9, 2026
Guard Sami Whitcomb was listed as probable for Thursday’s game — her first injury report upgrade this season after being listed as out. Whitcomb hasn’t played during the regular season after being sidelined with a left knee injury.
The veteran guard was able to suit up during Phoenix’s two preseason games before ultimately needing an arthroscopy. She also traveled with the team during its June road trips, suggesting she was nearing a return.
Now, that return could come against the Fever.
Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) brings the ball past midcourt as Team Japan guard Kokoro Tanaka (26) defends during their preseason game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, on April 29, 2026. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Whitcomb’s perimeter shooting, veteran experience and ability to space the floor could provide a boost for a Mercury offense looking to keep pace with Indiana. Last season, coming off the bench, she averaged 9.1 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists while shooting 38.5% from the field and 36.1% from 3-point range.
Even if her minutes are limited, Whitcomb’s presence could create more driving lanes for Phoenix’s playmakers and force opposing defenses to respect the 3-point line.
Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb poses for a portrait during the Phoenix Mercury media day in Phoenix, on May 6, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Mercury have navigated injuries throughout the season, so getting one of their most experienced guards back could provide a timely boost against a tough Indiana team.
Phoenix and Indiana tip off in their final meeting of the regular season on Thursday, July 9, at 7 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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