Why the Mercury must trade for Wings’ Sato Sabali

Days before The free agency period for the VNBA is openDallas Wings forward Satou Saballi he announced that he Phoenix Mercury enjoyed it. Sabali has announced that she will not be returning to Wings before the 2025 season After an injury-riddled campaign, Dallas finished with a 9-31 records and could get number 1.

Still, Sabali’s desired exit leaves the door open for a variety of possibilities. The franchise could “core” him, meaning they will sign him to a one-year deal. This will increase his trade value and a more lucrative trade package than other teams.

Turning to Mercury, they are in an interesting place. They have the star power to compete for a WNBA championship. However, some of their cores may have more years behind them than in front of them. For example, the The Mercury teased Diana Taurasi’s potential retirement at the end of last season.

Conversely, center Britney Griner is entering her 11th season in the league. Her offensive efficiency has increased, but her defensive impact has stagnated. While still a top shot blocker, Phoenix was one of the worst teams in a necessary category: rebounding.

Mercury was one of the worst teams in the league in that category, as 32.3 rebounds per game not something to brag about. Even with a small-ball lineup, they would dominate the glass. The 6-foot-9 Griner couldn’t stop other players from crashing down the boards with authority. Also, when Rebecca Allen fell, Sophie Cunningham took her place.

The rebound continued gradually. That gave all the more reason for the Mercury to sign someone like Sabali for dominance and a legitimate presence on that end.

How can Mercury trade for Sato Sabali?

It’s tough right now, considering Dallas didn’t attack her. However, when that happens, a trade is likely to occur. One of the names Phoenix could throw in would be Cunningham. She’s out of contract going into the 2025 season. Plus, she’s entering the prime of her career.

It was a legitimate promise when she was on the floor. Career 36.2 percent 3-point shooting had her best season in 2025. She started 20 of her 28 games and averaged 12.6 points per game. Not to mention, the Mercury forward has been a staple since he was drafted.

However, trading her, and possibly some draft picks, could improve the interior of the Mercury. Sabali herself averaged seven rebounds per game in her career. Although she is a force in the paint, she is a legitimate shooter. Wings forward won the award for the best player in 2022-23 after an exceptional season.

Her efforts led Dallas to a playoff appearance. They defeated the Atlanta Dream in the first round before facing the Las Vegas Aces. The eventual champions had the better of Creel, but showed some potential. The next season brought its own set of challenges.

Sabali’s injury limited her availability until August. By then it was too late to push for the playoffs. After months of waiting for an unparalleled inaugural season, that’s when the news arrived. All Sabali said was that she played her last game for Dallas at the end of the 2024 season. The The Wings will make a move with Sabali; it’s just a matter of when.

Could Satou Sabali End Up In Phoenix?

Although it has not been added, it is a desirable location. A new $100 million practice facility, a WNBA Original-12 team and the Mercury’s legacy could make it the crown jewel of the former Oregon standout. She has been through the merry-go-round of general managers and coaches, among other positions in Dallas.

Sabali could long for some consistency on all fronts. Plus, playing in front of a packed Mercury crowd could be the difference. Also, a core of Natasha Cloud, Kali Koper, Griner and possibly Taurasi could attract the 202o second overall pick to make a new home in the Valley of the Sun.