The Phoenix Mercury, one of the most successful teams in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), has been dealt a major blow with the latest news surrounding their star player Satou Sabally. The 2026 season was supposed to be a promising one for the Mercury, with their “Big Three” of Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Cooper, and Sabally leading the charge. However, Sabally’s recent update on her free agency talks has put a damper on the team’s hopes.
Sabally, who was a key player in the Mercury’s championship run last season, has indicated that she will not be returning to the team for the 2026 season. This news has come as a shock to both the team and their fans, as Sabally was expected to be an integral part of the Mercury’s future plans. The 24-year-old forward has been a consistent performer for the team, averaging 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game last season.
The Mercury’s “Big Three” of Thomas, Cooper, and Sabally have been the backbone of the team’s success in recent years. They have formed a formidable trio on the court, with their individual talents complementing each other perfectly. With Sabally’s departure, the team will undoubtedly feel her absence both on and off the court.
However, the Mercury management is not sitting idle in the face of this setback. In a bid to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season, the team has extended qualifying offers to four players – Brianna Turner, Sophie Cunningham, Kia Nurse, and Bria Hartley. These players have been an integral part of the team’s success in the past and are expected to step up in Sabally’s absence.
Brianna Turner, a 6’3″ center, has been a consistent performer for the Mercury since joining the team in 2019. She has been a dominant force in the paint, averaging 9.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game last season. Her defensive prowess and ability to score in the post make her a valuable asset to the team.
Sophie Cunningham, a 6’1″ guard, has been a key player off the bench for the Mercury. She is known for her tenacity on defense and her ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc. Her energy and hustle on the court make her a fan favorite and a valuable contributor to the team’s success.
Kia Nurse, a 6’0″ guard, joined the Mercury last season and made an immediate impact. She averaged 11.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, providing a much-needed scoring punch off the bench. Her ability to create her own shot and knock down three-pointers makes her a valuable asset to the team.
Bria Hartley, a 5’8″ guard, has been a consistent performer for the Mercury since joining the team in 2018. She is known for her playmaking abilities and her ability to score in clutch situations. Her experience and leadership on the court make her an important player for the team.
The Mercury’s decision to extend qualifying offers to these four players shows their commitment to building a strong team for the upcoming season. While Sabally’s departure is a major loss, the team is determined to move forward and continue their quest for another championship.
The news of Sabally’s departure may have come as a shock to the Mercury and their fans, but it should not dampen their spirits. The team has a strong core of players, and with the addition of some new faces, they are poised to make another run at the championship. The Mercury’s “Big Three” may no longer be intact, but the team’s determination and resilience will ensure that they remain a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA.
In conclusion, while Satou Sabally’s departure is a major setback for the Phoenix Mercury, it is not the end of the road for the team. The management’s decision to extend qualifying offers to four players shows their commitment to building a strong team for the upcoming season. The Mercury may have lost one of their stars, but they are determined to continue their winning ways and bring another championship to Phoenix. Let us continue to support and believe in our team as they embark on this new journey. Go Mercury!