Satou Sabally on Leveling Up With the Phoenix Mercury & Her Journey From Germany to the WNBA

WNBA star Satu Sabally, known as the league's "Unicorn," joins Sue Bird to share her incredible journey to becoming one of the WNBA’s most versatile and dynamic players. Satou opens up about her breakout 2023 season, which saw her earn a spot on the WNBA All-Star First Team and finish fifth in MVP voting. She also reflects on her German roots, her transition to the U.S., and the sacrifices that shaped her career.

In this episode, we get into everything—from her rookie struggles and learning the physicality of the WNBA to her decision to request a trade to the Phoenix Mercury. Satou breaks down her personal growth, overcoming injuries, and the mental toughness required to compete at the highest level. Plus, she shares her thoughts on team chemistry with Phoenix’s Big Three and her goals for the 2025 season.

Whether you’re a die-hard WNBA fan or simply love hearing stories of perseverance and success, this episode is for you.

Don’t miss out—hit that follow button for more exclusive WNBA content with new episodes every Friday!

00:00 - Intro

01:07 - Sue’s View

02:47 - Playoff Race Insights

06:50 - Resting Players Strategy

09:23 - Liberty Team Concerns

12:25 - Alyssa Thomas, Phee, A'ja MVP Cases

18:02 - Regular Season Impact on MVP

21:30 - Satou Interview

27:07 - Growing Up in a Big Family

31:54 - Playing Pro in Germany

36:48 - Choosing Oregon for College

40:15 - College Recruitment Insights

42:51 - Adjusting to College Basketball

46:17 - Playing with Sabrina Ionescu

48:59 - Trio Success at Oregon

52:25 - 2020 NCAA Tournament Cancellation Impact

54:02 - Leaving College Early

55:33 - Entering the WNBA Bubble

58:58 - Adjusting to WNBA Physicality

1:05:54 - Satou's Breakout in the 2023 Season

1:08:38 - Olympics and Shoulder Injury

1:14:13 - Requesting a Trade

1:18:10 - Current Game Style

1:19:46 - New Trio and Roster Dynamics

1:25:07 - Defining Success for the Mercury

1:26:15 - Returning to Dallas Experience

1:27:08 - Wrapping Up with Satou

1:27:51 - Outro

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices