Seattle Storm vs. Phoenix Mercury: The 2025 WNBA Season Opener

USA Today

Exciting Changes in the WNBA’s Opening Match

As the 2025 WNBA season kicks off, all eyes are on the showdown between the Seattle Storm and the Phoenix Mercury. Scheduled for Saturday, May 17, the game promises to deliver electrifying basketball action as both teams step onto the court with significant roster changes and high expectations.

The Phoenix Mercury’s Offseason Reshaping

The Mercury have undergone a remarkable transformation this offseason, bidding farewell to four of last year’s starters. This significant turnover results in a fresh roster that still boasts considerable talent. With veterans like Diana Taurasi retiring and Brittney Griner no longer on the team, the Mercury faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding. Nevertheless, they’ve succeeded in acquiring Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally through offseason trades. Both players are recognized as all-league talents, and their addition brings the Mercury back into contention despite the notable departures.

Seattle’s Strategic Adjustments

On the other side, the Seattle Storm are also navigating a new era after parting ways with Jewell Loyd, trading her to the Las Vegas Aces during the offseason. Seattle is not without talent, however. The return of Alysha Clark adds further strength to a roster that includes 2024 All-WNBA Second Teamer Nneka Ogwumike and center Ezi Magbegor. With recent roster changes, the Storm are eager to prove they can rise above last season’s first-round playoff exit and make a deeper run this year.

Key Details for the Season Opener

Fans eager to catch the action can tune in at the following details:

• Time: 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT
• Location: PHX Arena, Phoenix, Arizona
• TV Channels: CBS 5, Arizona’s Family Sports (local Arizona), KOMO 4, CW Seattle (local Seattle)
• Streaming: Available through WNBA League Pass

This game marks a significant moment for both franchises as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding while seeking success in the competitive landscape of the WNBA. Both teams are laden with potential, making the season opener a must-watch event.

Season Predictions and Fan Expectations

With the various team changes, expectations are running high. Fans of both the Seattle Storm and Phoenix Mercury are eager to see how the new pieces fit together. The arrival of elite players like Alyssa Thomas is expected to influence the Mercury’s championship aspirations significantly. Meanwhile, the Storm’s adjustments may yield fruitful results as they reconnect with their winning chemistry.

As both teams take the court, their competitive spirit will be on full display, setting the tone for the upcoming season. The reshaped rosters and added talent should keep fans on the edge of their seats throughout the game.

Tags: Seattle Storm, Phoenix Mercury, WNBA, Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Diana Taurasi, sports news, basketball, women’s basketball, 2025 season opener