As the WNBA All-Star Game draws closer, anticipation is building rapidly, both on the court and across social media. On Tuesday, July 8, Caitlin Clark finalized her starting five during a special edition of ESPN’s WNBA Countdown, and reactions followed immediately.
But one post stood out. Shortly after the draft, Phoenix Mercury star Satou Sabally shared a two-word message that captured attention and hinted at her mindset heading into the league’s biggest showcase.
Satou Sabally Drops 2-Word Message After Being Drafted to Caitlin Clark’s All-Star Starting Five
After being selected as a starter on Clark’s WNBA All-Star team, Mercury forward Sabally posted a short but striking message on X:
“satou ready😌😌😌😌😏😏😏😏.”
The post came shortly after the WNBA All-Star Draft concluded on ESPN, where Clark and Napheesa Collier picked their full lineups for the July 19 clash in Indianapolis. Sabally’s inclusion in the starting five reflects both her individual form this season and her ideal fit alongside Clark’s playing style.
Sabally is currently enjoying the best scoring run of her career. She is averaging 19.1 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, while shooting 39% from the field. A three-time All-Star, this year marks her first selection as a Mercury player, having previously earned the honor while with the Dallas Wings, who drafted her second overall in 2020.
The former Oregon standout has scored in double figures in every game this season and has notched 10 20-point outings. In Clark’s up-tempo system, Sabally offers spacing, slashing, and off-ball movement that can open up lanes for Clark or punish mismatches.
Clark selected Aliyah Boston with her first pick, followed by Sabrina Ionescu, A’ja Wilson, and finally Sabally to complete her starting five. With Wilson attracting attention in the paint and Ionescu pulling defenders to the perimeter, Sabally becomes a key connector — someone who can contribute as a scorer, rebounder, and facilitator.
She is also expected to play an important role defensively against Team Collier that features strong, physical forwards like Breanna Stewart and skilled wings like Paige Bueckers. Her length, agility, and timing will be central to Team Clark’s effort on both ends.
Team Clark’s Lineup Faces Major Test Against Collier’s Picks
Clark and Collier built their teams in a live draft format that delivered a headline-making mix of veterans, rising stars, and current standouts. While Clark’s team looks dangerous, Collier’s picks signal a serious challenge as well.
“I’ll let phee win this one” @satou_sabally take that personally https://t.co/WxQrQb58Uh
— kiki (@rihnaisssance) July 8, 2025
Collier selected Stewart, Allisha Gray, Nneka Ogwumike, and rookie Bueckers as her starters. Off the bench, she added Angel Reese, Skylar Diggins, Alyssa Thomas, Kelsey Plum, Courtney Williams, and Rhyne Howard — a combination that offers depth, versatility, and big-game experience.
The action tips off at 8:30 p.m. ET on July 19 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With Sabally’s message clear and confidence high, all eyes will be on how she delivers when the lights come on.
