PHOENIX, AZ – The future arrived with a resounding statement on May 17, 2025, as the Phoenix Mercury, in their first season without legend Diana Taurasi, showcased a potent new identity by dismantling the Seattle Storm 81-59 in the WNBA season opener for both franchises. The PHX Arena faithful witnessed a decisive performance from a dramatically revamped Mercury squad, hinting at an exciting chapter for Phoenix basketball.
From the opening tip, the Mercury asserted their dominance, never trailing and quickly establishing a rhythm that left the Storm reeling. Phoenix raced to an early 20-6 lead, a clear indication of their intent and the effectiveness of their offseason acquisitions. While Seattle attempted to claw their way back, closing the first quarter at 23-15 and briefly narrowing the gap to six points in the second, the Mercury consistently found answers. They entered halftime with a comfortable 41-30 advantage, a lead built on efficient offense and stifling defense. The fourth quarter sealed Seattle’s fate, as Phoenix uncorked a decisive 12-1 run, extinguishing any hope of a Storm comeback.
At the heart of the Mercury’s commanding victory were their standout newcomers, Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas. Sabally, acquired in a blockbuster four-team trade from the Dallas Wings, exploded for a game-high 27 points, showcasing her offensive versatility and proving to be an immediate impact player. Her performance, which included overcoming an early ankle scare, marked the most points by a player in a Mercury debut, a testament to her talent and readiness. Alyssa Thomas, another key offseason addition via trade from the Connecticut Sun, complemented Sabally perfectly with a robust 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, illustrating why she’s considered one of the league’s most versatile forwards. The dynamic duo combined for 47 points, carrying the offensive load in the absence of last year’s leading scorer, Kahleah Copper (knee), and Natasha Mack (back), both sidelined by injury. Phoenix’s overall shooting efficiency was impressive, hitting 51.7% from the field, a stark contrast to their opponents.
For the Seattle Storm, the season opener was a stark reminder of the void left by six-time WNBA All-Star Jewell Loyd, who was traded in the offseason to the Las Vegas Aces in a significant three-team deal. This marked the first time in a decade the Storm stepped onto the court without Loyd, and her absence was keenly felt on the offensive end. While Skylar Diggins battled valiantly, leading the Storm with 21 points and 4 assists, and Nneka Ogwumike added 12 points and 7 rebounds, the rest of Seattle’s starting lineup managed a paltry 6 points collectively on a dismal 2-for-19 shooting. As a team, the Storm struggled mightily from the field, converting just 33.3% of their shots and a meager 3-of-17 from beyond the arc. Head Coach Noelle Quinn acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We have to take a look at it on film and really be better. We have a mature group; we have a pretty connected group. We’ll look at and get better from it.”
This matchup was more than just a game; it was a pivot point for both franchises. The Mercury, navigating their post-Taurasi era, saw eight new players make their debut, the most since the WNBA’s inaugural season in 1999. Their decisive win, fueled by fresh talent and renewed energy, signals a promising trajectory. Meanwhile, Seattle’s own new era, without their former offensive anchor, faces immediate challenges in finding consistent scoring and cohesion. While the season is long, the Phoenix Mercury’s dominant performance against the Seattle Storm on May 17, 2025, served as a compelling opening statement, setting the tone for what promises to be a fascinating WNBA season.
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