Kahleah Copper to be her own natural leader for the Phoenix Mercury in 2025

Copper, entering her 10th year in the WNBA, is positioned to be a new leader for Mercury this season, with many new faces looking for roster spots. She mentions that playing with great players has taught her different leadership styles, but ultimately every person has their own way of being a leader.

“You’re able to be your best authentic and genuine self when you do it your way,” Copper explained. “You don’t try to do it like [how] anyone else does it.”

Watching leaders stay true to themselves has inspired Copper to stick to who she is and she wants to replicate that for her teammates this season.

“I’m trying to do it my own way,” Copper said.

While Copper is still new in her role as a leader with Mercury, she has mentored Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese. She understands how mentors “pour” confidence into their players and give feedback to apply to the game.

“It was about pouring into her and helping her grow as a person and as a player,” said Copper.

As a veteran for almost a decade, Copper has to remind herself she’s playing the sport she loves when she thinks of the balance of her career and her life off the court. It’s her life, but the future is unpredictable.

“I just have these moments where I have this wave of gratitude,” said Copper. “I’m just super grateful for everything.”