Sources: Sparks deal All-Star G Plum to Mercury
The Sparks are trading five-time All-Star Kelsey Plum to the Mercury for Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 second-rounder, sources told ESPN.
The WNBA landscape just got a whole lot more interesting. The Sparks are shipping off five-time All-Star Kelsey Plum to the Mercury in a deal that brings in some significant draft capital and a young player in Monique Akoa Makani. For Plum, this marks a new chapter in her career, and she'll now be suiting up alongside the likes of Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner in Phoenix.
This move has major implications for both teams. The Sparks are clearly looking to the future, acquiring a first-round pick in 2027 and a second-rounder in 2028. It's a bold move, but one that could pay off if they're able to build a strong young core around Makani. Meanwhile, the Mercury are making a clear push for contention, adding a proven scorer and playmaker in Plum to their roster. With the WNBA's competitive balance shifting, it's exciting to think about how these teams will match up in the coming seasons.
So what's next to watch? The Mercury's roster is now stacked with talent, but they'll need to figure out how to integrate Plum into their system. Can they make a deep playoff run? Meanwhile, the Sparks will be looking to develop Makani and make the most of their draft picks. Will they be able to build a winning team around their young players? Tour fans will be keeping a close eye on both teams as the WNBA season heats up.
Originally reported by espn.com. TourNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.