Mercury to begin season without key players against the Storm

Copper, who played in one preseason game for Phoenix, was dealing with a back injury that kept her sidelined against the Golden State Valkyries on May 11. She’s now confirmed to be dealing with a left knee injury that will keep her out on opening night. Copper was Phoenix’s leading scorer in 2024.

Natasha Mack, returning to Phoenix for year two, played in both of its preseason games but is now listed to be out with a back injury. Mack was a backup for Britteny Griner when Griner was sidelined with an injury in 2024.

Mercury goes into Saturday’s game with a fresh new roster, with the additions of Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas to look out for.

During the preseason, Sabally led the Mercury offense averaging 14.5 points per game while shooting 47.4% from the field and 54.5% from 3-point range. Kathryn Westbeld, also a new addition, shares similar stats with Sabally. Westbeld averaged 11 points per game, shooting 47.4% from the field and 44.4% from three.

Preview for the Storm

Seattle also had a busy offseason, acquiring Lexie Brown from the Los Angeles Sparks and bringing back three-time WNBA champion Alysha Clark after her time with the Las Vegas Aces.

The Storm comes to Phoenix off a win in its only preseason game against Connecticut Sun on May 4, 79-59. Forward Nneka Ogwumike led Seattle’s offense with 18 points, shooting 66.7% from the field and 80% from three.

Seattle won’t have Katie Lou Samuelson on opening night due to a right knee injury.

The Mercury and the Storm will battle for their first win of the 2025 WNBA season on May 17 at 7 p.m.