The Seattle Storm and Phoenix Mercury face off in their season opener at Footprint Center in Phoenix. Both teams enter the 2025 WNBA season with revamped rosters, making this an intriguing matchup between two franchises in transition.
Game Details
- Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM PT
- Venue: Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
- TV Broadcast: ESPN, WNBA League Pass
Team Overview
Seattle Storm (0-0, Season Opener)
- Win Probability: Underdog (+105 moneyline)
- Key Players:
- Skylar Diggins-Smith (veteran guard, expected to lead the offense)
- Nneka Ogwumike (dominant forward, strong rebounding presence)
- Ezi Magbegor (defensive anchor, key rim protector)
- Strengths:
- Strong frontcourt presence with Ogwumike and Magbegor
- Experienced leadership despite offseason roster changes
- Defensive versatility
Phoenix Mercury (0-0, Season Opener)
- Win Probability: Favorite (-145 moneyline)
- Key Players:
- Alyssa Thomas (new acquisition, elite playmaker)
- Satou Sabally (versatile forward, strong rebounding ability)
- Kalani Brown (dominant post presence)
- Strengths:
- High-powered offense with Thomas leading the charge
- Strong frontcourt depth with Sabally and Brown
- Home-court advantage at Footprint Center
Matchup Breakdown
- Storm’s Edge: Seattle boasts a strong defensive presence, with Ogwumike and Magbegor expected to control the paint. Their ability to limit Phoenix’s second-chance opportunities will be key.
- Mercury’s Hope: Phoenix must capitalize on Thomas’ playmaking ability and push the tempo. If their offense clicks early, they could take control of the game.
- X-Factor: Skylar Diggins-Smith vs. Alyssa Thomas – The battle between two elite guards could define the game’s outcome.
GAME ODDS
Seattle Storm 162.5
Phoenix Mercury – 2.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025
