Overview
- The WNBA announced on Wednesday that Kahleah Copper will replace Kelsey Plum on Team Coop for the 2026 All-Star Game at the United Center in Chicago.
- The Los Angeles Sparks said Plum suffered a lower-left leg injury that will sideline her for at least 10 games and make her unavailable for the All-Star break.
- Copper returns to the All-Star stage after missing the season start for knee surgery and posting a strong scoring season, averaging about 20.5 points per game and ranking among the league leaders.
- Under WNBA rules, commissioner Cathy Engelbert names injury replacements, and Copper’s addition restores a Phoenix Mercury representative on rosters drafted by Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon.
- Copper’s selection may boost Mercury momentum and fan interest as the league celebrates its 30th season, and her All-Star nod highlights questions about initial reserve omissions and player voting that followed the first roster release.