How the Mercury rebuilt their big three for a WNBA playoff run

In late January, WNBA players Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally met for breakfast in Miami, where they discussed the new 3-on-3 league Unrivaled and the opportunity to develop their games alongside other top players. During the meal, Copper pitched Sabally on joining the Phoenix Mercury, texting her coach and general manager to request reimbursement for the breakfast as part of her recruiting efforts.

Sabally, who had recently informed the Dallas Wings of her intent to leave, expressed her desire to join a professional organization with high standards where she could be surrounded by greatness rather than setting the standard herself. With Diana Taurasi likely retiring and Brittney Griner rumored to be on the move, the Mercury were entering a new era and seeking to redefine their identity.

Three weeks after the breakfast, Sabally informed Phoenix's front office that she wanted to play for the Mercury. The team also pursued perennial MVP candidate Alyssa Thomas, and through a historic four-team trade, acquired both players, establishing a new "big three" with Copper and marking the start of a new chapter for the franchise.

The trio's playing styles complement each other: Copper thrives as a scorer and cutter, Thomas excels as a facilitator and primary ball handler, and Sabally, known as "The Unicorn" for her versatility, ties everything together. This alignment supports the position-less style that coach Nate Tibbetts and general manager Nick U'Ren, both with NBA backgrounds, aim to establish in Phoenix.

The recruitment efforts began in 2024 when Sabally was a restricted free agent, and though she initially stayed in Dallas, the groundwork was laid. Similarly, Thomas became a target as rumors surfaced about her potential departure from the Connecticut Sun after 11 seasons. Copper played a key role in recruiting both players, emphasizing the Mercury's vision and the freedom they would have within the system.