Overview

• Kahleah Copper, the Phoenix Mercury's top returning player, underwent successful arthroscopic knee surgery and is expected to return in 4–6 weeks.
• Copper, who was the WNBA's third-leading scorer in 2024 with 21.1 points per game, will miss the team's season opener against the Seattle Storm.
• The Mercury will also be without forward/center Natasha Mack for 2–3 weeks due to a lower back injury sustained during preseason preparations.
• The absence of Copper and Mack delays the full debut of the Mercury's newly formed Big 3, consisting of Copper, Alyssa Thomas, and Satou Sabally.
• The Mercury's restructured roster aims to adapt to a fast-paced, positionless style under coach Nate Tibbetts following the offseason departures of Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner.