The Phoenix Mercury (11-19) are embarking on a five-game road trip that could make or break the team's WNBA playoff hopes, starting with the Chicago Sky (11-18) on Monday, Aug. 3.
The Sky sit a half-game ahead of the Mercury in the race for the eighth spot in the playoffs, which is currently occupied by the New York Liberty (17-13).
However, help is on the way after the Mercury made a shocking move at the trade deadline that brought in star Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks for point guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick.
Before going down with a lower leg injury, Plum averaged a career-high 23.9 points on a career-best 52.7% shooting in 12 games. When she suits up for the Mercury, she'll provide
much-needed 3-point shooting as she's gone 38.3% from three-point range. The Mercury have the fourth-lowest 3-pointers made per game with 7.6.
Plum was probable to play for the Sparks on Sunday, Aug. 2, after missing 11 consecutive games from injury. But her trade delayed her return. Plum is questionable to make her Mercury debut against the Sky as she's pending results from her physical.
When do the Phoenix Mercury play the Chicago Sky today, Aug. 3? Phoenix Mercury game start time
- The Phoenix Mercury play the Chicago Sky at 6 p.m. MST Monday, Aug. 3, at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.
How to watch Phoenix Mercury vs. the Chicago Sky today, Aug. 3.
- TV: USA Network, Arizona's Family Sports
Is Kelsey Plum playing vs. the Chicago Sky today, Aug. 3? Mercury-Sky injury report
- Phoenix's Kelsey Plum (pending physical result) is questionable, while Sami Whitcomb (left knee injury management) is probable. Chicago's Skylar Diggins (right knee) and Azurá Stevens (personal reasons) are both out.
Reach the reporter or send tips for stories at jenna.ortiz@arizonarepublic.com, as well as @jennarortiz on X.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Will Kelsey Plum make her Mercury debut vs. Chicago Sky?
