Former Mercury player weighs in on Kelsey Plum trade to Phoenix
· Yahoo Sports
PHOENIX — Buzz over the Phoenix Mercury’s blockbuster Kelsey Plum trade continues to dominate the conversation around the league, with one former player giving her perspective on the move.
Visit sportbet.rodeo for more information.
News of the trade broke late Saturday night, with the five-time All-Star making her way to the Valley to help bolster a team looking to slip into the postseason. However, the trade package sent guard Monique Akoa Makani to the Los Angeles Sparks along with two high draft picks.
Many questioned whether the package was too much to give up for a player who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, but former Mercury player Adrian Williams-Strong doesn’t see it that way.
Jun 13, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum (10) celebrates after defeating the Phoenix Mercury in overtime at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
“Monique will be missed, but getting Plum brings a new excitement to the team/organization,” Williams-Strong told Burn City Sports’ J. Russell. “It shows that we have not given up on the season and are making moves to win.”
Williams-Strong’s comments reflect a win-now mentality rather than writing off the season. Instead, there’s still a postseason berth to chase, and Plum could be the catalyst that helps Phoenix erase its six-game deficit and make a late playoff push.
Jun 13, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum (10) passes around Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Having spent five seasons with the organization from 2000-04, Williams-Strong understands the expectations that come with wearing a Mercury uniform. Around Phoenix, making the playoffs isn’t just viewed as a possibility — it’s the expectation. Her comments reflect that standard, and the front office’s aggressive move for Plum suggests it feels the same way.
At 11-19 with only 14 games left to make a push, there’s little room for error. But if the Mercury are going to make a run, the organization believes Plum gives them the best chance to do it.
May 21, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) knocks the ball away from Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum (10) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Whether the move ultimately pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Phoenix isn’t waving the white flag on the 2026 season.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Where the Diamondbacks stand less than 24 hours before the trade deadline