Kelsey Plum traded to Phoenix Mercury and scores 20 in debut

Five-time All-Star guard Kelsey Plum was dealt by the Los Angeles Sparks to the Phoenix Mercury at the WNBA trade deadline. The Sparks received forward Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first‑round pick and a 2028 second‑round pick. The move marked only the fourth mid‑season trade of an All‑Star in league history.

Plum, who had missed six weeks with a lower‑leg injury, made her Mercury debut against the Chicago Sky on August 3, 2026. In 20‑21 minutes off the bench she posted 20 points on 6‑10 shooting (3‑5 from three), added four assists, one rebound and three turnovers, and hit the go‑ahead three‑pointer with 53 seconds left to secure a 106‑101 win. Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts praised her performance, noting the limited preparation she had before the game. Teammate Alyssa Thomas called Plum “a scorer who gives the team more space.” Mercury general manager Nick U’Ren highlighted Plum’s competitive mindset and potential impact on the team’s offense.

The trade also involved the Toronto Tempo acquiring Aneesah Morrow from the Connecticut Sun, but Plum’s move and immediate contribution were the headline of the deadline activity.