What happened: Kelsey Plum is out for the rest of the 2026 WNBA season and withdrew from the FIBA Women’s World Cup. The Mercury went 1-4 in her five appearances.
Why it matters: The injury has intensified questions around Phoenix’s acquisition of Plum. The Mercury were 11-19 and in 12th place when she arrived, then fell to 14-26.
By the numbers: Plum averaged 15.8 points, 2.8 assists and 21.0 minutes across five games with Phoenix.
What to watch: Phoenix must finish the season without Plum as the franchise assesses the trade’s long-term cost.