CHICAGO — Phoenix Mercury fans didn’t have to wait long to see why Kelsey Plum’s addition created so much excitement.
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Aug 3, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kelsey Plum (0) reacts after scoring against Chicago Sky center Kamilla Cardoso (10) during the second half of a WNBA game at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
In her Mercury debut against the Chicago Sky on Monday, Plum scored 20 points with four assists and shot 6-for-10 from the field — immediately showing the scoring ability, confidence and competitive edge that Phoenix hoped she would bring. She knocked down timely shots throughout the night, highlighted by a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final seconds of the fourth quarter that ultimately lifted the Mercury to a 106-101 victory over the Sky.
For Mercury fans, it was all the introduction they needed.
Yea so…circling back to this Kelsey Plum is a SEAMLESS fit 😭
Phoenix still gotta clean up that defense but they look like a different team. Completely frees up Kah and AT. https://t.co/Y6Kn5XB1DS
— Cloud (@maestroxv_) August 4, 2026
kelsey plum is exactly what phx needed
— emma (@rendezvous_girl) August 4, 2026
Ummm i need @PhoenixMercury to like sign Kelsey Plum after this season js 😍😍💪🏼💪🏼
— ʝ𝖊𝛈𝛈 ϻ𝛂𝖉𝐫𝖎𝖉 (@Jennedy13) August 4, 2026
That Kelsey Plum three is exactly why U’ren was willing to risk things
— jemay loves books & hoops (@apieceofjaaay) August 4, 2026
Aug 3, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kelsey Plum (0) enters the first half of a WNBA game against the Chicago Sky at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Plum wasted little time making her presence felt, giving Phoenix another proven scorer and playmaker capable of delivering in clutch moments. Twenty points in her first game is an encouraging start, but it was the way she scored — confidently creating her own shot, stretching the floor and stepping up when the game was on the line — that stood out most.
Her arrival marks a new chapter for a franchise determined to return to championship contention. After an unexpected season filled with questions, the Mercury made a significant investment in Plum because they believe she can be the piece that elevates the roster.
Aug 3, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kelsey Plum (0) goes to the basket against the Chicago Sky during the first half of a WNBA game at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Plum’s ability to create offense, attack defenses and take pressure off the team’s other stars gives Phoenix another dynamic weapon and a player capable of changing games.
If Monday’s debut is any indication, Plum is exactly the type of player the Mercury envisioned adding this offseason. While one game won’t define the season, her performance gave fans an early glimpse of what the front office believes she can provide, which could help push Phoenix back into the postseason and make the Mercury a legitimate contender.
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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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