Phoenix Mercury’s Kahleah Copper named 2026 WNBA All-Star injury replacement

Kahleah Copper is heading back to the WNBA All-Star Game.

The Phoenix Mercury wing was named an injury replacement for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, the league announced Wednesday.

Copper replaces Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum on “Team Coop.” Plum was previously ruled out due to a lower leg injury.

The selection marks Copper’s fifth career WNBA All-Star nod and her second during her tenure with the Mercury. She previously earned All-Star honors from 2021-24 and now adds 2026 to her resume.

Copper, 31, has been a driving force for Phoenix’s offense this season. Through 27 games, the dynamic scorer ranks seventh in the WNBA in scoring, averaging 20.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 0.7 steals per contest.

She stands as one of just five players across the league to eclipse the 40-point threshold in a single game this year.

Additionally, Copper has recorded 14 games with at least 20 points, which stands as the fourth-most in the league this season.

The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game will be played on Saturday, July 25 at United Center in Chicago. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. MST and the game will air nationally on ABC.

As part of the WNBA’s 30th season celebration, league icons Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon served as honorary general managers, drafting the 11-person rosters for “Team Coop” and “Team Spoon.” Copper will suit up for Team Coop, headed by the four-time WNBA champion Cooper.

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