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Phoenix Mercury trades for Kelsey Plum, eyes playoff surge

8/17/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Taurasi Jersey Retirement

Phoenix Mercury retired Diana Taurasi’s No. 3 jersey and inducted her into the Ring of Honor at halftime on August 16, 2026.
The ceremony filled the Mortgage Matchup Center to its 16,513-seat capacity.
A street sign outside the arena was renamed 10646 Taurasi Way for her scoring record.
Taurasi will qualify for the Naismith Hall of Fame this season and the Women’s Hall after 2027.

Summary

Stephanie White Booed

Coach Stephanie White was booed at her Tuesday introduction, drawing criticism from fans and Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith.
All-Stars Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell defended White, calling the boos “annoying” and “disrespectful.”
The Fever beat the New York Liberty 106-92, with player Caitlin Clark adding 29 points and 10 assists.
Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts defended White, saying she should only be judged on coaching basketball.

Summary

Plum Traded

Kelsey Plum was traded from Los Angeles Sparks to the Phoenix Mercury for Monique Akoa Makani and two draft picks.
Owner Mat Ishbia said he will match any offer with a super-max contract for Plum.
A lower-leg injury sidelined Plum for the Aug 15 game against the Portland Fire, with reassessment scheduled after Aug 22.
The Mercury are 13-22 and hope Plum’s return can spark a playoff push with nine games left.

History

Historical Context

Founded in 1996, the WNBA launched its inaugural 1997 season with eight franchises, highlighted by the Houston Comets winning the first championship and a 14,284-fan opening game. Decades of star promotion and early TV deals set the foundation for today’s league growth, which reached 15 teams by 2025 and will add two new franchises in 2026.

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Taurasi Jersey Retirement

Phoenix Mercury retired Diana Taurasi’s No. 3 jersey and inducted her into the Ring of Honor at halftime on August 16, 2026.
The ceremony filled the Mortgage Matchup Center to its 16,513-seat capacity.
A street sign outside the arena was renamed 10646 Taurasi Way for her scoring record.
Taurasi will qualify for the Naismith Hall of Fame this season and the Women’s Hall after 2027.

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