Sabally Shines as Mercury Surge Despite Injuries

Phoenix Forward Leads Team to Winning Record, Awaits Teammates’ Return

Despite a roster brimming with rookies and key players sidelined, the Phoenix Mercury are experiencing a resurgence, largely thanks to the stellar play of forward Satou Sabally. The team’s 6-4 start marks their best record through ten games since 2020.

A Fresh Start in the Valley

Acquired in an offseason trade from the Dallas Wings, Sabally has quickly become a focal point for the Mercury. She’s embraced the opportunity, finding a renewed sense of purpose after a challenging previous season.

“Last year was one of the hardest years I’ve faced,” Sabally shared after a recent loss to the Seattle Storm. “Having great people around you is important.”

Statistical Dominance

Sabally is currently averaging 20.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. This impressive output is particularly notable considering she’s already played five more games than she did all of last season with the Wings. According to Statista, the average points per game for a WNBA forward in 2024 was 16.8, putting Sabally well above the league average. Statista

Rookie Contributions and Coaching Perspective

Photo by Crawford McKinstry/Cronkite News)

The Mercury have relied heavily on undrafted rookies Monique Akoa-Makani, Kathryn Westbeld, and Lexi Held to fill crucial roles while starters recover from injuries. Coach Nate Tibbetts expressed both pride and a desire for further improvement.

“I’m super proud of our group. We’re missing three starters,”

—Nate Tibbetts, Coach

Tibbetts added, “I’m extremely happy. I’m not satisfied. I don’t think any of us are. But I do like where we are, and I think help is coming.”

Looking Ahead

Alyssa Thomas is expected to return to the lineup Wednesday against the Wings after a calf injury sidelined her for five games. Assistant coach Michael Joiner emphasized the team’s cautious approach to Sabally’s workload.

“Satou loves basketball. She loves to be out there,” Joiner said. “We don’t want to break her down or run her into the ground. But she’s been great for us. Offensively, she’s starting to see the game, so she’s playing really well.”

Sabally and the Mercury will continue their homestand against the Wings before traveling to Las Vegas to face the Aces on Sunday. Sabally expressed her excitement about playing in front of the Phoenix crowd.

“I’m really excited to play in front of our home crowd,” Sabally stated. “I feel like I really take it game by game and it’s just a regular game, but I’m excited to see the people.”