League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Match Previews

Kelsey Plum sidelined for Mercury's home game debut on Sunday

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 6:57 PM

Last updated Aug 15, 2026

Kelsey Plum sidelined for Mercury's home game debut on Sunday

Summary

Kelsey Plum will not participate in the Phoenix Mercury's upcoming home game against the Portland Fire on August 16 due to left calf tightness. Coach Nate Tibbetts confirmed that Plum will be re-evaluated but has not fully recovered. She joined the Mercury after a five-game road trip and played in four games before experiencing this issue. The team faces an uphill battle for the playoffs, sitting seven games out of contention with nine games remaining in the season. The game will also feature Diana Taurasi's jersey retirement ceremony at halftime.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Kelsey Plum confirmed out for the August 16 game.
•Plum averaged 17.3 points in her first games with the Mercury.
•The Mercury are seven games out of a playoff spot.
•Phoenix returns to action on August 22 after the home game.
•Diana Taurasi's jersey retirement happens at halftime.

Latest Updates

6:57 PMYahoo Sports — Mercury fans will have to wait a little longer to see Kelsey Plum suit up in Phoenix
11:08 PMYahoo Sports — Will Kelsey Plum make her home Mercury debut on Sunday, Aug. 16?

What they're saying

"
PHOENIX — After a five-game road trip, the Phoenix Mercury are finally back home, but they’ll start their next homestand without guard Kelsey Plum. Head coach Nate Tibbetts told reporters Friday that the All-Star has been ruled out ahead of Sunday’s game against the Portland Fire, marking her second missed game since arriving in Phoenix.
— Yahoo Sports