On the eve of the 2024 WNBA regular season’s opening night, teams like the Phoenix Mercury are finalizing their rosters and are set for the first tip-off.
Before arguably the highest anticipated campaign in “W” history begins, CBS Sports writer Jack Maloney published his power rankings and he believes the Mercury is the No. 5 team in the league. The reigning WNBA champions Las Vegas Aces are ranked first, with the New York Liberty, Seattle Storm and Connecticut Sun behind them chronologically.
“There wasn’t much cause for concern when the Mercury ruled Brittney Griner out for their final preseason game with a foot injury, but that changed quickly when she showed up to the game in a walking boot and riding a scooter,” Maloney said. “The team has not made any official announcement, but it certainly appears she may miss some time in the regular season, which would be a tough break for the new-look Mercury.”
As Maloney mentioned, there has not been any information as to the severity and possible timeline of Griner’s injury. At Mercury Media Day, she was seen wearing shoes on both feet and showed no signs of pain or anguish when walking.
When the Mercury were getting set for their preseason finale against the Los Angeles Sparks, she was unavailable and strolled around in a black boot.
If Griner’s injury keeps her out going into the season, it will be a huge blow for Phoenix who would miss their nine-time All-Star. Look for Liz Dixon and Natasha Mack to slot in at center instead if Griner’s injury status becomes more clear.
The Mercury had a busy offseason as a franchise. They named Nate Tibbetts as the newest head coach, signed Natasha Cloud as a free agent and traded for Rebecca Allen, Kahleah Copper and Morgan Bertsch.
Diana Taurasi is entering her 20th year and second decade in Phoenix as she will look to bring back a WNBA title to the Valley. She will become a free agent at the end of the season.
The Mercury were winless during their preseason as they lost to both the Sparks and Seattle Storm, but it will be interesting to see how the new additions and returning players build chemistry and become more accustomed to Tibbetts’ new systems.
Phoenix will get their season up and running Tuesday evening when they face the Aces at 7 p.m. PT in Vegas.
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