While the new CBA opened doors for players to get their worth, the Phoenix Mercury fans might find Satou Sabally’s next move hard to swallow.

After having a solid season with the Phoenix, Sabally, like many other players, is probably looking forward to maximising the benefits of the new CBA. And reporter Annie Costabile’s update provided some clarity.

“Satou Sabally is not expected to re-sign with the Mercury; multiple sources tell me”, Costabile took it to X on April 8. “Meetings with multiple teams are anticipated over the coming days when negotiations open up tomorrow.”

Averaging 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists last season, the 27-year-old veteran helped Mercury reach the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2017. The 3x All-Star also set a franchise record in her debut game.

As the offensive motor of the team, Sabally’s games in the playoffs were massive standouts. She even led her team in scoring, despite playing shorter minutes due to an ankle injury and a concussion later on.

So, having to lose such a high-impact player is indeed a cause of turmoil for the Phoenix fans. However, they extended the conversation further in X comments.

Fans Predicted Satou Sabally’s Next Move

Costabile reported that Sabally is anticipated to attend “meetings with multiple teams” in the upcoming days to secure her spot in the league for this season. However, some fans seemed really confident about one particular team.

“Toronto will take her”, wrote a fan. Another agreed, “Satou, you are a tempo.” “I’m surprised they didn’t core her to get something back. I’d assume she’s heading to Toronto with her sister, or maybe to GSV”, wrote another fan.

Where each team gets to core one player, Phoenix hasn’t cored anyone yet. Sabally was traded to the team after playing 5 seasons with the Dallas Wings. So, Mercury might just core someone else over her, but a fan highlighted what the team will miss.

“That woman was a kil*** in the playoffs last year. A walking bucket and rebounder, plus defensive prowess.” Another expressed distress, “I wonder why? She was really happy when she got there, and they need her.”

However, one fan specifically built a case as to why she should not leave the team and test out her standing in the league, making more profit when she has the skillset for it.

“Now, why in the world wouldn't Satou Sabally test the waters for 3 years at 1.4 MILLION each. 6 previous seasons, has a chance at 2 new contracts after this new one, give her 15 seasons with at least 6 more at high dollar, 6'4'' 175 lbs, can shoot/drive/distribute”, they wrote.

Although fans mentioned the Golden State Valkyries, Las Vegas Aces or even the Indiana Fever, most named Toronto Tempo.

Do you agree with this prediction, though? Comment it down.

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Written by

Deblina Roy

Edited by

Souvik Roy