The squad chosen by Caitlin Clark for the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game has experienced the loss of one of its initial players.
Satou Sabally, a forward for the Phoenix Mercury, communicated through Instagram this Wednesday that she will be absent from Saturday’s game as she continues her recovery from an ankle ailment. She mentioned her plans to be in Indianapolis this Thursday to participate in CBA negotiations, as discussions with the WNBA are ongoing.
Her announcement:
For the last couple of weeks, I’ve dedicated myself to rehabilitating my injury, aiming to return to the court with my Mercury teammates swiftly and to play as a starter in the All-Star Game.
Regrettably, my body requires more recuperation time, preventing me from playing this weekend. I’m naturally disappointed, but I’m focused on ensuring my health after the break to contribute effectively to my organization and the X-Factor as we strive to achieve our team objectives.
I’ll still be present in Indianapolis on Thursday to engage in the most crucial aspect of the weekend, which is advocating for a fair and just CBA. I value my role in the WNBPA Leadership Committee and will support my fellow players in securing a CBA that acknowledges the current state and future direction of our league.
Wishing all the All-Stars the best, and X-Factor…I’ll be seeing you all soon.
Sabally has been sidelined since July 3 and will remain so until at least July 23, when the Mercury resume play. Alyssa Thomas from Phoenix is still slated to participate in the game.
The Mercury welcomed Sabally last offseason through a four-team trade that also brought in Thomas. Having played her initial five seasons with the Dallas Wings, the former second overall draft pick is currently achieving a career-best average of 19.1 points per game, in addition to 7.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists.
Currently, the Mercury hold the second position in the Western Conference with a record of 15-6.
Prior to her ankle injury, Satou Sabally was enjoying the most productive year of her career. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
(Patrick McDermott via Getty Images)
Alongside Sabally, A’ja Wilson, Sabrina Ionescu, and teammate Aliyah Boston were chosen by Caitlin Clark as her starting lineup for the upcoming game, which marks Indiana’s inaugural All-Star Game in the franchise’s 26-year history. In addition to Sabally’s absence, Clark’s participation is also uncertain after she re-injured a groin issue this week.
Jackie Young, a wing player for the Las Vegas Aces and a reserve on Team Clark, also had to leave Wednesday’s game due to a hip injury.
The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game is scheduled to commence at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
