The Phoenix Mercury’s acquisition of Satou Sabally is a game-changer. After a breakout 2023 season that earned her the WNBA’s Most Improved Player award, Sabally’s rise was interrupted by injury. But after showcasing her skills in the Summer Olympics and returning to Dallas with a much-improved shooting stroke, she’s primed for a massive impact in Phoenix. With Brittney Griner’s departure, the Mercury needed a new star to help shape their future, and Sabally fits the bill. Here are three bold predictions for her upcoming season.
1. Sabally Will Become an Elite Rebounder for Phoenix
Rebounding was one of the Mercury’s biggest weaknesses last season, finishing 11th in the WNBA despite Griner’s presence. Without a dominant center, Sabally’s rebounding ability will be crucial.
She has averaged 7.0 rebounds per game in her career and will likely see that number increase as she takes on a bigger role inside.
Her activity in the paint will provide second-chance opportunities, helping head coach Nate Tibbetts implement his fast-paced offense.
With Alyssa Thomas also on board, the Mercury will have multiple strong rebounders who can push the ball in transition.
If Sabally can help Phoenix improve its rebounding numbers, it will directly lead to better defensive stops and easier offensive possessions.
2. She Will Become Phoenix’s Go-To Scorer
With Kahleah Copper as the Mercury’s primary perimeter weapon, Sabally will give Phoenix a versatile scoring threat who can attack from all areas of the court.
In 2023, she had a career-best 45.2% three-point shooting season, proving she can be a perimeter weapon.
Her ability to operate in the post makes her a mismatch for both bigs and guards.
Her ball-handling and IQ allow her to create shots for herself and others, making her a dynamic offensive weapon.
Without Griner’s post presence, Sabally will have the opportunity to establish herself as the team’s second primary scorer alongside Copper. If she continues her upward trajectory, she could be an All-WNBA selection.
3. She Will Become a Defensive Swiss Army Knife
While Sabally may not have the defensive reputation of elite stoppers like Alyssa Thomas, her versatility makes her a valuable asset on that end of the floor.
At 6’4” with great lateral quickness, she can guard multiple positions, from wings to power forwards.
She will allow Tibbetts to switch defensive matchups more effectively, which was a weakness for Phoenix last season.
Her ability to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes will help improve the Mercury’s overall defensive efficiency.
Sabally’s presence will relieve some of the defensive burden from Thomas while also adding much-needed length and mobility. If she takes another leap defensively, Phoenix could be a much-improved unit on that end of the floor.
Final Takeaway
The Mercury are in a transition period, but adding Satou Sabally gives them a franchise cornerstone to build around. Her rebounding, scoring, and defensive versatility will all play critical roles in reshaping Phoenix’s identity. If she stays healthy and continues her upward trajectory, Sabally could emerge as one of the most impactful players in the WNBA this season.
