The Phoenix Mercury are entering the 2025 WNBA season with optimism and uncertainty. Following a dramatic offseason, the team faces fresh challenges as one of its leaders, Kahleah Copper, is set to miss several weeks after knee surgery. With franchise legends like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner moving on, Phoenix now looks to its new core to start a new chapter.

A Major Setback: Kahleah Copper's Injury

Kahleah Copper, the Mercury’s highest scorer last season, will be sidelined for four to six weeks following a left knee arthroscopy. This news comes just as the newly rebuilt roster begins its campaign, putting even more pressure on recent acquisitions and rookies. Copper averaged an impressive 21.1 points per game in 2024, making her absence a major blow.

For a detailed update on her injury and expected recovery time, refer to this ESPN report on Mercury's Kahleah Copper injury. The article highlights her importance and summarizes the setback Phoenix faces at the start of the season.

Roster Overhaul and a New Direction

The 2025 season marks a true transition for the Phoenix Mercury. After saying goodbye to Taurasi and Griner, Copper was the expected leader among the returning players. However, the knee injury has shifted that responsibility to newcomers such as Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, who combined for 47 points in the season opener against the Seattle Storm.

Just how dramatic is the roster change? According to The Athletic, Phoenix started the season with zero players from the 2024 roster and three rookies. This transformation is practically unprecedented and pushes the team into uncharted territory. Coach Nate Tibbetts even joked about the need for name tags during training camp, emphasizing the newness of the lineup.

The Road Ahead for Phoenix Mercury

Besides Copper, forward Natasha Mack will also be out for several weeks with a lower back injury. This injury places more emphasis on the depth and adaptability of the newly formed squad. Arizona Sports shares further analysis on how Copper’s absence impacts the team, and how the All-Star newcomers will have to step up until she returns.

Fans are eager to see how the Phoenix Mercury adapt. Will the revamped roster gel quickly, or will a slow start be unavoidable? The experience and versatility of new additions Sabally and Thomas offer hope. Their strong debut performance indicates potential for success while the team awaits Copper’s return.

Conclusion: A Season of Transition and Opportunity

The early weeks of the 2025 WNBA season will test the resolve of the Phoenix Mercury. Kahleah Copper’s temporary absence, combined with such a dramatic roster overhaul, forces the team to rely on its new core and developing talent. As the Mercury chart a new course, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if this new-look squad can overcome adversity and remain competitive. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds and Copper works towards her comeback.