WNBA Power Rankings
Kahleah Copper’s Stellar Performance
Kahleah Copper has been a revelation this season for the Phoenix Mercury. Despite having played in 254 games since being drafted in 2016, Copper had only one 30-point game entering this season. Through 21 games this summer, she has hit the 30-point mark six times, including a stunning 34-point effort against the Dallas Wings.
Copper is tied with Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson for the most 30-point games this season, and she’s on pace to challenge the all-time record of 12 set by Maya Moore and Jewell Loyd. Copper is also on track to surpass Diana Taurasi’s Mercury franchise record of 10 such games in a season.
Under new Mercury coach Nate Tibbett, Copper thrives in a five-out system that plays to her strengths as an athletic wing and elite downhill driver. Copper’s ability to dominate at the basket is evident; she’s among the league’s most efficient players within five feet of the rim, scoring at a 61.6% clip.
For the season, Copper is averaging a career-high 22.5 points, placing her third in the league. Her performance has been pivotal in keeping the Mercury in playoff contention with an 11-10 record.
WNBA Power Rankings
1. Sun
The Connecticut Sun have reclaimed the top spot after winning three straight games. DeWanna Bonner’s career-high seven 3-pointers in a win over the Dream highlights their recent success. With tough matchups ahead against the Liberty, the Sun’s form will be tested.
2. Liberty
Despite a surprising loss to the Fever, the New York Liberty remain tied for first place. Jonquel Jones’ inconsistent scoring is a concern; the Liberty are 2-3 when she scores fewer than 10 points and 15-1 when she exceeds that mark.
3. Aces
A’ja Wilson continues her dominant season, now leading the Aces’ franchise scoring list. Her averages of 27 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.8 steals, and 2.7 blocks per game are MVP-caliber, keeping the Aces in contention.
4. Lynx
The Minnesota Lynx face adversity with back-to-back losses and Napheesa Collier’s foot injury. Collier’s return after the Olympic break will be crucial for their playoff push.
5. Storm
The Seattle Storm are capitalizing on their lengthy homestand, with Ezi Magbegor emerging as a defensive force. Her career-high eight blocks against the Sky underline her candidacy for Defensive Player of the Year.
6. Fever
Caitlin Clark made history with a triple-double in a win over the Liberty, becoming the first rookie to achieve this feat. Clark’s performance has propelled the Fever into playoff contention.
7. Mercury
The Mercury ended the week on a high with wins over the Wings and Sparks. Natasha Cloud’s career-high 31 points against the Sparks and Copper’s breakout season are driving their success.
8. Sky
The Chicago Sky had a mixed week but secured two wins to claim the final playoff spot. Chennedy Carter’s season-high 33 points and Angel Reese’s double-double streak are positive signs.
9. Sparks
The Los Angeles Sparks broke their eight-game losing streak with an overtime win over the Aces but returned to losing ways against the Mercury. Rookie Rickea Jackson’s career-high 22 points offer hope for the future.
10. Mystics
The Washington Mystics remain tied for last place despite a win over the Sparks. Injuries and offseason departures have hindered their offensive capabilities.
11. Dream
The Atlanta Dream’s injury woes continue with Jordin Canada and Rhyne Howard sidelined. Tina Charles’ milestone of moving into third place on the all-time scoring list is a lone bright spot amid their struggles.
12. Wings
The Dallas Wings endured a tough week with three losses in four games. With the worst defensive and net ratings in the league, their playoff hopes are dim, even with a healthy roster post-Olympic break.
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