SIOUX FALLS — The result will count only in the preseason standings, but for the Phoenix Mercury, Saturday’s win over the Chicago Sky carried far greater meaning.
Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts smiles after the team wins against Chicago Sky on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. © Samantha Laurey / Argus Leader / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Playing in South Dakota, far from Phoenix, the Mercury brought their energy and presence to transform the Sanford Pentagon into a hub of celebration. It served as a reminder of the WNBA’s growing reach into communities that don’t often host professional basketball.
Head coach Nate Tibbetts, who grew up and attended high school in Sioux Falls, and assistant coach Megan Vogel, who played at South Dakota State from 2003 to 2007, were able to enjoy the game from a personal lens.
Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts high fives assistant coach Megan Vogel after winning against Chicago Sky on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. © Samantha Laurey / Argus Leader / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“Unbelievable,” Tibbetts said, reflecting on the atmosphere, according to team media. “You could feel it as soon as the doors opened, the excitement that they were ready for this. I’ve tried to tell our group how much this state loves girls’ basketball, women’s basketball, and they showed up today. It was pretty cool. It’s been a very emotional and exciting 30 hours.”
The atmosphere inside the arena reflected that energy. A packed crowd, many seeing WNBA players in person for the first time, filled the building, with fans even dressed in Phoenix purple. Kahleah Copper said it felt fitting as the team embraced a moment that carried a sense of homecoming.
Phoenix Mercury’s Kiana Williams (23) brings the ball up court while playing against Chicago Sky on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. © Samantha Laurey / Argus Leader / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“It was super cool,” she said, according to team media. “Just the fans, seeing some of the little girls from the camp yesterday, and just seeing how the city showed up for [Tibbetts]. That was amazing.”
For many in attendance, the night was more than just a game — it was a rare opportunity to feel connected to the highest level of the sport.
The WNBA has made a concerted effort in recent years to expand its visibility beyond traditional markets, including staging exhibition games in non-WNBA cities to engage new audiences. In South Dakota, that mission came to life. Mercury players embraced the moment, taking time to interact with fans, sign autographs and create lasting memories. Copper, for example, gave a young fan her sneakers after the game and signed them, turning a brief interaction into a lasting memory.
The game itself will fade as the regular season approaches, but the meaning of the night will endure. The preseason victory highlighted access, inspiration and the continued growth of the game.
For the Mercury and the WNBA, that lasting impact may ultimately matter most.
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