Overview
- The Phoenix Mercury acquired five-time All-Star guard Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks in late July and the Sparks received Monique Akoa Makani plus a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick.
- Plum returned from a June lower‑leg injury and scored 20 points off the bench, including a go‑ahead 3, in her Phoenix debut on Aug. 3 and then had a 19‑point first start on Aug. 5.
- Phoenix remains outside the playoff picture about five to six games back and team leaders say Plum’s scoring and court IQ give the Mercury renewed hope in the late push.
- USA Basketball announced its 12‑player FIBA World Cup roster on Aug. 6 and included Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Plum and Aliyah Boston among other WNBA standouts.
- Clark was listed as probable for Indiana’s upcoming game versus Las Vegas, highlighting a developing availability story as players balance club minutes, injury management, and national‑team preparation.