Kelsey Plum has played in just five games since her midseason trade to the Mercury.

NEW YORK — Cathy Engelbert’s decision to retire as WNBA commissioner at the end of 2026 closes one of the most consequential chapters in the league’s history, and one the Phoenix Mercury have felt closely. Engelbert, the league’s first commissioner, took over in 2019 and presided over a period of unprecedented growth, including major media deals, a new collective bargaining agreement, expansion plans and rising player salaries.

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury will be split across two continents over the next two weeks, with three players chasing a gold medal for their countries while the rest of the roster uses the league’s break to reset and prepare for what comes next. Aug 9, 2024; Paris, France; United States forward Kahleah Copper (7) dribbles the ball in a women’s basketball semifinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena.