On Thursday night, Kahleah Copper secured her place in Phoenix Mercury history by becoming the fastest player to reach 1,000 points for the franchise. Achieving this feat in just 51 games, Copper broke the previous record held by Jennifer Gillom, highlighting her scoring prowess early in her time with the team.

Breaking Jennifer Gillom’s Record and Early Career Impact

Copper surpassed Jennifer Gillom’s previous mark of 1,000 points scored in 55 games—a record set by the former MVP runner-up during the WNBA’s inaugural season in 1997. Gillom’s standout campaign came in 1998 when she averaged 20.9 points per game, leading the Mercury to a 19-11 season. Interestingly, as of this writing, the 2025 Mercury are matching that same 19-11 record, marking an exciting chapter for the franchise.

From Rival to Key Contributor in Phoenix

Before joining Phoenix in the 2024 offseason, Copper was a formidable opponent as a player for the Chicago Sky. She gained national attention during the 2021 WNBA Finals when her Sky team defeated Phoenix 3-1, while she outperformed Mercury stars Diana Taurasi and Skylar Diggins. Copper averaged 17 points and 5.5 rebounds during the series, shooting 50% from the field and earning the Finals MVP award. Her scoring dominance was evident, especially in Games 1 and 3, where her 36-point effort helped seal a decisive victory.

Kahleah Copper’s Role and Evolution with the Mercury

Since arriving in Phoenix, Copper has continued to display the scoring ability that challenged the Mercury in years past. She recorded a career-high average of 21.1 points per game in her first season with Phoenix, earning honors on the All-WNBA Second Team and a selection to the WNBA All-Star Game. This season, Copper’s scoring average has moderately decreased to 15.9 points per game as the Mercury roster grew to include more offensive threats. Nevertheless, she has evolved into a highly efficient three-point shooter, knocking down 44% of her attempts from beyond the arc, which has made her offensive game even more versatile.

Weaponizing Skill and Athleticism to Secure Points

Copper combines a quick first step with an arsenal of moves that allow her to consistently outmaneuver defenders and score efficiently. Her ability to generate points at such a rapid pace reflects her dedication and elevated skill level. Fans now eagerly await to see if Copper will soon get another opportunity to lead the Mercury deep into the playoffs, perhaps even showcasing her talents in the WNBA Finals—this time as a home team star.

Looking Ahead for Kahleah Copper and the Mercury

As Kahleah Copper continues to set new records and establish herself as a scoring force, her impact on the Phoenix Mercury grows stronger with each game. Her rapid rise to 1,000 points, combined with her evolving shooting range and court presence, suggests that she will remain a cornerstone for the team’s success. With a promising season underway, Mercury fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as Copper aims to push her team toward greater achievements.

“She hit the milestone in just 51 games, surpassing the previous record of 55 games, set by Jennifer Gillom.” —Chris Harrison, Team Reporter
“Copper scored a career-high (and team-high) 21.1 points per game in her first season in purple and was named to the All-WNBA Second Team and the WNBA All-Star Game.” —Chris Harrison, Team Reporter
“Only time will tell if she will someday get another chance to show Mercury fans what she can do in the Finals, but this time on the home team.” —Chris Harrison, Team Reporter