Satou Sabally ‘Moving On’ After Being Booed in Dallas originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Satou Sabally didn’t have the best welcome in her return to Dallas on Thursday. For the first time in the 2025 WNBA season, Sabally returned to the College Park Center. Before she was traded to the Mercury by the Dallas Wings in the offseason, the arena served as her home court for five seasons.
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Sabally has had plenty of memories in Dallas, as she emerged to be an All-Star during her five-year run with the franchise. However, she added another memory to her experience on Thursday.
The fans came out to support the home team, led by rookie guard Paige Bueckers. That is why the Mercury was booed by the crowd. Even though Phoenix had a former Dallas player, the fans remained loyal to the Wings.
Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally shoots over Dallas Wings center Luisa Geiselsoder.Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
After the Mercury’s 98-89 loss, Sabally was asked about the reception she received from the fans. According to the two-time All-Star, she’s ready to move on, but also expressed her happiness to see the Dallas franchise.
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“The city booed me, so I’m moving on. I was happy to see everyone in the back and hug everyone, and I was actually really happy to come here, but then I guess it’s also a sign of respect to be booed, so I’ll take that,” Sabally said.
Sabally finished with 20 points, three assists and two steals. Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts also talked about the star forward’s return to Dallas.
“I’m sure she was super excited. Maybe a little bit nervous. I thought she came out and played solid. She’s had a great year. We’re extremely happy to have her,” the head coach told reporters.
During her time with the Wings, Sabally averaged 15.7 points, seven rebounds and 3.6 assists. This year, with the Mercury, the 2023 Most Improved Player is putting up 19.1 points, eight rebounds and 2.6 assists.
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The next time the two teams will face each other will be on Monday. Phoenix will look to avenge their loss and have a 2-1 season series advantage.
Related: WNBA Makes Announcement as Paige Bueckers And the Wings Win Over Mercury
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 4, 2025, where it first appeared.