Archive · 2 Aug 2026
Kelsey Plum Traded to Phoenix Mercury Before WNBA Deadline
The Los Angeles Sparks traded their star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury just before the WNBA trade deadline.
In return, the Mercury gave up a young guard named Monique Akoa Makani and two future draft picks.
Plum had missed many games because of injuries but still scored a lot of points when she played.
The Sparks finished the season with 10 wins and 17 losses, while the Mercury had 11 wins and 19 losses.
The trade is hoped to help the Mercury get back into the playoffs after last year’s Finals appearance.
Los Angeles Sparks traded All‑Star guard Kelsey Plum to Phoenix Mercury just before the August 2 trade deadline.
Mercury received Plum in exchange for guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first‑round pick, and a 2028 second‑round pick.
Plum, who missed 12 games in 2026 due to injury, averaged 23.9 points and 6.4 assists in the season.
Sparks finished the season 10‑17, 11th in the standings, and recently fired GM Raegan Pebley.
Mercury, 11‑19, hopes Plum’s scoring and playmaking will help them return to the playoffs after last year’s Finals appearance.
- Who
- Kelsey Plum, Monique Akoa Makani, Los Angeles Sparks, Phoenix Mercury
- What
- Trade of Kelsey Plum from the Sparks to the Mercury
- When
- August 2, 2026
- Where
- WNBA
- Why
- Sparks rebuilding after a 10‑17 season; Mercury seeking playoff push
- Player traded
- Kelsey Plum
- Receiving team
- Phoenix Mercury
- Trade deadline
- August 2, 2026
- Sparks record
- 10‑17
- Mercury record
- 11‑19
- Draft picks exchanged
- 2027 first‑round, 2028 second‑round