Overview

• The Phoenix Mercury (1-0) host the Los Angeles Sparks (1-1) at PHX Arena on May 21 at 10 p.m. ET, with both teams managing significant roster challenges.
• Phoenix activated forward Murjanatu Musa and guard Kitija Laksa after their overseas commitments; Laksa is expected to play limited minutes, while Musa's availability remains uncertain.
• The Mercury are without Kahleah Copper, sidelined for 4-6 weeks after knee surgery, and Natasha Mack, who is out for 2-3 weeks with a back injury.
• The Sparks will miss key players Cameron Brink (ACL recovery), Rae Burrell (knee), and Rickea Jackson (concussion), leaving Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby to shoulder the offensive load.
• Phoenix's Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas shined in their season opener, combining for 47 points in a dominant win over Seattle, setting high expectations for their roles against Los Angeles.