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 update on Satou Sabally’s free agency talks. The 2026 season was supposed to be a promising one for the team, with their “Big Three” of Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Cooper, and Sabally leading the charge. However, with Sabally’s recent indication of leaving the team, the Mercury’s hopes have taken a hit.
Sabally, a 6’4″ forward from Germany, was a key player for the Mercury in their Championship run last season. Her versatility and skill on both ends of the court made her an integral part of the team’s success. She averaged 13.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, and her presence on the court was always felt by the opposition.
But now, it seems like Sabally’s time with the Mercury has come to an end. In a recent interview, she revealed that she has received offers from other teams and is seriously considering them. This news has left the Mercury management and fans disappointed, as they were hoping to see Sabally continue to don the purple and orange jersey for years to come.
The 2026 season was supposed to be a crucial one for the Mercury, as they were looking to build on their success from last season. With the “Big Three” leading the way, the team had high hopes of winning back-to-back championships. However, Sabally’s potential departure has put a dent in those plans.
But all is not lost for the Mercury. The team has extended qualifying offers to four players, including Thomas and Cooper, which means they have the right to match any offer made to them by other teams. This move shows the team’s commitment to keeping their core intact and continuing their winning ways.
Thomas, a 6’2″ forward, was the Mercury’s leading scorer last season, averaging 15.5 points per game. She also contributed 9.0 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, making her a triple threat on the court. Her leadership and experience were crucial in guiding the team to their third WNBA title.
Cooper, a 6’1″ guard, was also a key player for the Mercury last season. She averaged 10.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, and her energy and hustle on the court were unmatched. Her ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc and drive to the basket made her a valuable asset for the team.
The Mercury have also extended qualifying offers to Bria Hartley and Kia Nurse, both guards who played important roles in the team’s success last season. Hartley, in particular, was a key contributor off the bench, averaging 9.8 points and 2.6 assists per game. Her ability to create shots and provide a spark on the court was crucial for the team’s success.
With these four players, the Mercury have a strong foundation to build upon for the 2026 season. While Sabally’s potential departure is a setback, the team has shown that they are not afraid to make moves to keep their core intact. The management is determined to bring back the Championship trophy to Phoenix, and they will do whatever it takes to make that happen.
The Mercury’s “Big Three” may have taken a hit, but the team’s spirit and determination remain intact. With the qualifying offers extended to four key players, the team is ready to face any challenge that comes their way. The 2026 season may not be as smooth sailing as they had hoped, but with the right mindset and a strong team, the Mercury can overcome any obstacle and continue their winning ways.
In conclusion, while Sabally’s potential departure is a major loss for the Phoenix Mercury, the team is not giving up on their dreams of winning back-to-back championships. With the “Big Three” still intact and the addition of other key players, the Mercury are still a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA. The team and its fans may be disappointed, but they are not losing hope. The 2026 season will be a challenging one, but the Mercury are ready to face it head-on and emerge victorious once again.