The Phoenix Mercury are making bold moves this offseason to reshape their team and build momentum for success. Following the departure of Brittney Griner and the acquisition of Alyssa Thomas, the Mercury have added another All-Star, Satou Sabally, in a three-team trade involving the Dallas Wings and Indiana Fever. Let’s break down the trade, its impact, and what this means for the WNBA’s 2025 season.
Details of the Trade: Who’s Going Where?
Here’s a breakdown of the key players and assets exchanged:
Phoenix Mercury Receive:
- Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings)
- Kalani Brown (Dallas Wings)
- Sevgi Uzun (Dallas Wings)
Dallas Wings Receive:
- Ty Harris (Phoenix Mercury)
- Mikiah Herbert Harrigan (Phoenix Mercury)
- NaLyssa Smith (Indiana Fever)
- 2025 No. 8 overall pick (Indiana Fever)
Indiana Fever Receive:
- Sophie Cunningham (Phoenix Mercury)
- 2025 No. 19 overall pick (Phoenix Mercury)
Satou Sabally: A Game-Changing Addition for the Mercury
The 25-year-old forward Satou Sabally is coming off a breakout 2023 season in which she earned her second All-Star selection and the WNBA Most Improved Player award. Sabally’s versatility as a scorer, rebounder, and playmaker makes her a valuable addition to the Mercury’s frontcourt, especially after the team lost Griner to free agency.
Key Stats from Sabally’s 2024 Season:
- 17.9 points per game
- 6.4 rebounds per game
- 5 assists per game
Although injuries limited her to just 15 games in 2024, Sabally is expected to be fully healthy for the upcoming season. She had previously requested a trade from the Dallas Wings, citing her desire for a team that prioritizes investment in women’s sports. The Phoenix Mercury’s new state-of-the-art, $100 million practice facility seems to fit the bill.
Other Players Joining the Mercury
Kalani Brown:
A 6’7” center who brings much-needed size and depth to the Mercury’s frontcourt. Brown, who also played for the Wings, will likely have an opportunity to take on a larger role with Phoenix.
Sevgi Uzun:
An international player from Turkey, Uzun brings playmaking and shooting ability. Although relatively unknown in the WNBA, she could be a valuable depth piece for the Mercury.
Why the Trade Works for Phoenix
After finishing in seventh place in 2024 and getting swept in the first round of the playoffs, Phoenix knew they needed upgrades. The addition of Sabally and Alyssa Thomas creates a formidable frontcourt pairing, especially when combined with Kahleah Cooper, another All-Star forward and Olympic gold medalist. If veteran star Diana Taurasi returns for her 21st season, the Mercury could be poised for a playoff run.
The team’s decision to invest in Sabally over Griner may be controversial, but Sabally’s youth and versatility could provide better long-term value. Griner, now with the Atlanta Dream, was a fan favorite, but the Mercury are clearly focused on building a more balanced roster.
Key Players the Wings Gain in the Trade
The Dallas Wings, who struggled with a 9-31 record last season, are getting some valuable assets:
- NaLyssa Smith: A former No. 2 overall pick, Smith showed promise in her rookie season but saw her performance decline in 2024. Moving to Dallas gives her a chance to reset and develop under a new system.
- Mikiah Herbert Harrigan: A forward who brings defensive presence and athleticism to the Wings.
- Ty Harris: A capable guard who will add backcourt depth to the Wings’ rotation.
Indiana Fever’s Takeaway: Sophie Cunningham Adds Shooting and Leadership
The Fever, who have been actively reshaping their team this offseason, add Sophie Cunningham, a high-energy wing known for her three-point shooting and defensive grit. Cunningham’s leadership and ability to stretch the floor will complement Indiana’s All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell and newly signed power forward Natasha Howard.
The Fever also traded away NaLyssa Smith but will benefit from a fresh start with Howard anchoring their frontcourt.
Sabally’s Missed Reunion with Former Teammates
While Sabally was interested in joining the New York Liberty to reunite with her sister Nyara Sabally and former Oregon teammate Sabrina Ionescu, she ultimately chose Phoenix. Ionescu, while supportive of Sabally’s decision, admitted she was disappointed they wouldn’t be teaming up again.
“I’m excited for her and ready to see her journey. As for us, we’re focused on getting another championship,” Ionescu said.
Did the Mercury Win the Trade?
The Phoenix Mercury’s aggressive offseason strategy shows they are serious about contending in 2025. By acquiring Sabally and Thomas, they’ve created a versatile, dynamic lineup capable of making a deep playoff run.
However, the success of this trade largely depends on Sabally’s health and how well the team can integrate its new pieces. If Sabally returns to her All-Star form, the Mercury could emerge as one of the top teams in the league.
On the other hand, Dallas and Indiana are focusing on long-term development, hoping that their young players will flourish with time.
