Mat Ishbia seeks full control of WNBA's Phoenix Mercury amid controversy

Mat Ishbia, owner of both the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, is finalizing a deal to buy out the remaining minority shareholders, increasing the Ishbia family's control to nearly 99%. This development comes at a time when the WNBA is embroiled in discussions over transgender athlete eligibility, which were raised during a recent task force meeting. The Mercury, currently struggling in the standings, sit at 10th place with a record of 13-22 and have added player Kelsey Plum ahead of the playoffs. Diana Taurasi, a Mercury legend, has expressed interest in joining the team's ownership group in the next one or two years. The buyout follows previous tensions between Ishbia and minority shareholders regarding a capital call.

• 5:05 PMYahoo Sports — NBA owner makes major move with WNBA stake amid growing transgender controversy