Phoenix Arena was cloaked in anticipation as Mercury’s newest star, Satou Sabally, took center stage, the thunderous roar of the crowd rising in a crescendo that seemed to shake the rafters.
After announcing to skip EuroBasket Women 2025 to focus solely on the WNBA season this year, Sabally’s performance against Seattle on May 17 was clear proof that her decision stemmed from her will to create a legacy here.
With every dribble and decisive move, she spun her magic, unleashing a performance that resonated throughout the league. By the buzzer, not only had she torched the Seattle Storm for 27 points, but also carved her name into franchise legend.
Satou Sabally’s Historic Debut Against the Storm
In her debut game wearing the Mercury jersey, Sabally scored 27 points, breaking all previous records for scoring debuts in Phoenix. The outing also featured 6 rebounds and 2 blocks, demonstrating her two-way capabilities on both sides of the court.
Sabally shattered the franchise mark for most points scored by a player in her season opener with the club, according to StatMuse.
After this, Phoenix never was behind, rolling to an 81-59 win in the season opener for both teams on May 17, 2025. The win was a declaration from a “new-look” Mercury, combining veteran poise with Sabally’s new flair.
The 27‑point outburst came on efficient shooting from the floor and a near‑perfect performance at the stripe, where she knocked down 6 free throws.
After landing on the court, Sabally gained momentum, attacking the rim to push Phoenix’s lead into double digits. By halftime, she had claimed 17 points.
In addition to her, forward Alyssa Thomas added 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, creating an immediate one‑two punch Seattle just could not keep up with.
Phoenix’s offense operated at a blistering 51.7 % clip from the field, outpacing Seattle’s 33.3 %, while the Mercury also dominated the glass.
From the first bucket to Sabally’s final free throw, the crowd of 10,623 fans in the PHX Arena remained on its feet, erupting with each highlight‑reel play.
Social media buzzed with admiration, as one @WomensHoops_USA tweet celebrated the debut record. One fan commented in the same tweet thread, “This ain’t just a stat line — this is a warning. She’s built for greatness,” reminding everyone of the championship pedigree that has long defined Phoenix.
Another Phoenix fan tweeted, “This mercury team being title contenders would be so undeniably f’n cool.”
What Lies Ahead for Mercury
Buoyed by Sabally’s record‑setting night, the Mercury head to clash with the Los Angeles Sparks on May 21 carrying unstoppable momentum, eager to build a winning streak and further integrate their dynamic duo.
If Sabally’s electrifying debut is any indication, Phoenix’s faithful can expect more nights of pinpoint shooting and defensive tenacity from their new “Unicorn,” a moniker earned through her rare combination of size and skill.
As the 2025 campaign gains steam, one thing is clear: Satou Sabally has arrived, and this is only the beginning of what promises to be a historic tenure in Phoenix Mercury.
