PREVIEW: The Seattle Storm and Phoenix Mercury kick off their 2025 WNBA season with a highly anticipated matchup at Footprint Center, featuring two teams reimagining their identities after significant roster transformations. Phoenix underwent a major offseason overhaul, trading away key players like Britney Griner and Natasha Cloud while acquiring All-Star forwards Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas. Intriguingly, the Storm enter the game with some compelling defensive strengths, ranking 1st in limiting 3-point attempts and 2nd in defending shots near the rim. With Jewell Lloyd traded and replaced by 19-year-old draft pick Dominique Malonga, Seattle faces the challenge of replacing their top scorer from last season. The game will spotlight veteran talents like Skylar Diggins, Nneka Ogwumike, and the Mercury's Kahleah Copper, alongside new additions like Alyssa Thomas, a six-time All-Defensive team member who started all 40 games last year and averaged 10.6 points and 8.4 rebounds. Phoenix brings their own defensive intrigue, ranking 1st in limiting shots attacking the rim and 2nd in defending against 3-point shooting. The Mercury struggled in preseason, losing both games and allowing 84.5 points per game, with offensive performances averaging just 81.5 points. With both teams eager to start strong after disappointing playoff exits last season, this opener promises an unpredictable and closely contested battle that lacks a clear favorite.