The postseason race is heating up, making the Phoenix Mercury vs Seattle Storm matchup even more crucial for both sides. With almost 10 games per team left in the season, every result will significantly impact playoff chances, especially for teams ranked sixth through tenth. As of now, the Mercury hold the fourth position comfortably, but they will aim to strengthen their seed heading into the postseason battle.
On the other hand, Storm, clinging to eighth, desperately needs a win to improve their playoff hopes. Los Angeles and Washington are hot on their tails to grab their spot. But before tip-off, let’s take a closer look at the injury report and the projected starting five members of both teams.
Phoenix Mercury vs Seattle Storm: Where to watch
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
Time: 03:00 PM PST/ 06:00 PM EST
Venue: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
Where to watch: Cable viewers can tune in on AZFamily, CW Seattle, KOMO 4, and Merc+, while streaming fans can choose from WNBA League Pass, Fubo, or YouTube TV.
Phoenix Mercury vs Seattle Storm: Injury Report
Despite the 2025 season being heavily impacted by injuries across the league, fortunately, both the Mercury and the Storm have avoided the worst of it. Though they still carry a few names on the injury list, each with a hopeful return on the horizon. The Mercury have already seen impactful returns from key stars, and their depth has filled in admirably. However, the Storm’s losses have been more severe and season-ending. Let’s take a look at the injury status of players of both teams with their estimated return date.
Phoenix Mercury
Monique Akoa Makani: GTD (Game Time Decision)
Monique Akoa Makani is questionable for the game against Seattle following a left knee injury. She had previously been out with a concussion but has since been cleared from the concussion protocol. Whether she will suit up or not will be revealed before tip-off.
Seattle Storm
Katie Lou Samuelson: OFS (Out for Season)
Katie Lou Samuelson tore the ACL in her right knee during practice on May 1 and, after medical evaluation, was ruled out for the entire 2025 season. The setback prevented her from making even a single appearance this year. Reflecting on the unfortunate situation, she said, “I was really looking forward to being able to play with this group right here. The veteran leadership, the young players. It’s a very special group.” With the list of injured players out of the way, let’s look at the expected starters from both teams.
Predicted Starting Lineup
Phoenix Mercury
Alyssa Thomas
Natasha Mack
Satou Sabally
Kahleah Copper
DeWanna Bonner
Seattle Storm
Nneka Ogwumike
Gabby Williams
Ezi Magbegor
Skylar Diggins
Brittney Sykes
Phoenix Mercury vs Seattle Storm predictions: Which team will clinch victory?
The two teams step onto the court carrying different expectations but sharing the same objective: victory. On paper, the Mercury appear stronger, holding a higher spot in the standings and boasting a superior points-per-game average compared to the Storm. Yet, despite their stronger statistical profile, Phoenix has struggled to crack the code of Seattle’s style of play.
For Seattle, Nneka Ogwumike continues to be the engine, shooting an efficient 51.8 percent from the field while putting up 18.2 points a night. Skylar Diggins has also found her rhythm recently, averaging 12.4 points across the last 10 games. In their last three matchups, the Storm hold the upper hand with a 2–1 record. Adding to their confidence, they enter this contest fresh off a statement win against the Atlanta Dream, the league’s second-strongest team. Playing in the familiar atmosphere of Climate Pledge Arena only strengthens their case as favorites.
May 17, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Seattle Storm forward Nneka Ogwumike (3) dribbles against the Phoenix Mercury during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
For Phoenix, the challenge is twofold: avoiding a third straight loss to the Storm while also snapping their current two-game skid. On the Mercury side, Alyssa Thomas has been her all-around self, nearly averaging a triple-double with 16.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, nine assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Kahleah Copper has provided consistent scoring support as well, adding 14.6 points and 2.6 rebounds while shooting 42.6 percent over her last 10 outings. Veteran players like DeWanna Bonner are also contributing time to time, but is it enough to beat the Storm?
With momentum on Seattle’s side, even ESPN Analytics favors the home team, projecting a 64.6 to 35.4 probability split in their favor. Still, the ultimate verdict will be delivered once the closing whistle sounds.
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