Satou Sabally Joins Phoenix Mercury in Complex Three-Team Trade
In a significant move for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), former Oregon Ducks star Satou Sabally is heading to the Phoenix Mercury as part of an intricate three-team trade. This development reshapes the rosters of the Mercury, Dallas Wings, and Indiana Fever.
Details of the Trade
The Phoenix Mercury acquire Satou Sabally from the Dallas Wings in exchange for Ty Harris and Kiki Herbert Harrigan. Additionally, the Mercury receive NaLyssa Smith and the No. 8 overall draft pick from the Indiana Fever.
For the Indiana Fever, the trade brings Sophie Cunningham and Phoenix’s second-round pick.
The Dallas Wings, in return, secure Kalani Brown and Sevgi Uzun from the Mercury.
Background on Satou Sabally
Sabally had expressed her intention to leave the Dallas Wings after the 2024 season, stating that she did not want to continue playing for the team that drafted her second overall in 2020. Despite being offered the franchise tag, trading was the only way for Sabally to pursue other opportunities.
Dallas Wings forward Satou Sabally, No. 0, drives on Indiana Fever forward Damiris Dantas, No. 12, in a game on September 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)AP
The Trade Impact on Each Team
Pheonix Mercury
The Mercury welcome a formidable player in Sabally, who averaged 15.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists over her five seasons with the Dallas Wings. Her addition comes at a crucial time, as the team lost star center Brittney Griner and the future of veteran Diana Taurasi remains uncertain.
Additionally, the Mercury solidify their young core by bringing in Harris and Harrigan, and they gain valuable depth with NaLyssa Smith and the No. 8 overall draft pick.
Dallas Wings
Though the Dallas Wings lose a key player in Sabally, they gain substantial assets in return. Adding Kalani Brown and Sevgi Uzun strengthens their roster. Furthermore, they secure the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft after winning the lottery, offering a promising future.
Indiana Fever
The Indiana Fever enhance their roster with Sophie Cunningham and Phoenix’s second-round pick. These acquisitions come on the heels of their signing of free agent Natasha Howard, demonstrating their commitment to improving their team.
Upcoming Adjustments
The deal cannot be finalized until Saturday, when free agents are permitted to sign with their new teams. This timeline allows for all parties to wrap up their obligations before official contracts are inked.
Sabally’s last season with the Wings was limited to 15 games due to her preparation for the Olympics. Despite this, she provided strong performances, showcasing her value to her new team.
The acquisitions by the Mercury also include Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun, who had a career-best season averaging 10.5 points and 3.0 assists. Ty Harris, drafted by the Wings in 2020, brings experience and scoring potential to Phoenix.
Conclusion
This multi-team trade highlights the dynamic nature of the WNBA and the strategic decisions made by franchises to improve their rosters. The arrival of Satou Sabally in Phoenix brings significant star power, while the Dallas Wings prepare for future growth with their promising draft pick. Similarly, the Indiana Fever look to build a stronger squad with their recent additions.
As the WNBA season approaches, fans will eagerly follow the performances of these traded players and the impact they will have on their new teams.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the latest developments in the WNBA.
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