The 2025 WNBA season opens with an intriguing matchup between the Seattle Storm and the Phoenix Mercury, who are both looking to redefine their identities after significant roster changes. The Storm will head to Arizona to face the Mercury, who are aiming to establish chemistry with a largely revamped team.
The Seattle Storm will feature a fresh roster, highlighted by the addition of Dominique Malonga, the second overall pick from France, along with key experience from returning players like Skylar Diggins, Ezi Magbegor, Nneka Ogwumike, and Gabby Williams. This core contributed impressively last season, accounting for nearly 54 points and over 22 rebounds per game collectively, indicating strong team chemistry that they’ll look to leverage right from the season’s start.
In contrast, the Phoenix Mercury will depend heavily on Kahleah Copper, their leading scorer from last season. They have significantly changed their lineup, returning only two players from the 2024 roster. New faces include Satou Sabally, who was a First Team All-WNBA selection two years ago, and Alyssa Thomas, consistently a top performer whose experience will be crucial in the early stages of the season.
While the talent is there for Phoenix, the key challenge will be how quickly the team can build rapport among the many new players. Meanwhile, the Storm’s existing chemistry positions them as favorites for this opening game, particularly given the Mercury’s adjustment period.
Betting analysis points toward Seattle covering a spread of -3.5, capitalizing on their established roster against a still-forming Mercury squad. Local fans should tune in to the game, scheduled for Saturday night at PHX Arena.
This matchup presents an opportunity for both teams: for the Storm to solidify their positioning in the league and for the Mercury to showcase their potential despite the upheaval. Overall, this game marks a significant start for both franchises, each eager to define their narratives early in the season.