​PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury may receive a welcome veteran return ahead of their matchup with the Indiana Fever. Sami Whitcomb, the seasoned guard for Phoenix, was listed as probable on the injury report for Thursday’s game, marking the first upgrade this season after previously being ruled out with a left knee injury. Whitcomb has not appeared in the regular season games since her injury, though she did participate in the team’s two preseason contests before undergoing arthroscopic surgery. She also traveled with the Mercury on their June road trips, a sign that she was nearing a comeback.
The potential return of Whitcomb could arrive just in time to impact a Mercury squad eager to keep pace with Indiana. Her outside shooting, veteran know-how, and ability to stretch the floor would provide a valuable boost to an offense that has been trying to keep up with the Fever. In last season’s efforts off the bench, Whitcomb averaged 9.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, while shooting 38.5% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range. Even if her minutes are limited, her presence should help create more driving lanes for Phoenix’s ball handlers and compel opposing defenses to respect the three-point line, opening up more options for the Mercury’s playmakers.
Whitcomb’s return would come as Phoenix has contended with injuries throughout the season, making the addition of one of their most experienced players particularly timely against a formidable Indiana squad. The two teams are set to meet in what will be their final Regular Season clash, with tip-off scheduled for Thursday, July 9, at 7 p.m. local time.
As Phoenix looks to balance lineup rotations and optimize spacing, Whitcomb’s return could influence both the Mercury’s starting five and their established bench unit. Her ability to distribute the basketball, knock down triples, and make quick decisions in the open floor could help Phoenix maintain offensive tempo and create easier scoring opportunities for teammates. If she does play, her presence on the court might also alter how Indiana schemes to defend Phoenix, potentially forcing adjustments that could benefit the Mercury’s other shooters and catalysts.
With the season’s injury curve continuing to ebb and flow, Whitcomb’s anticipated return stands as a potential turning point for Phoenix as they aim to bolster their defense of home court and press for victories against high-caliber opponents. The impending game versus Indiana on Thursday night will reveal just how ready Whitcomb is to contribute in her first significant action of the season and how the Mercury intend to leverage her veteran savvy to maximize their chances of success as the regular season progresses.