Kahleah Copper is enduring the most challenging shooting stretch of her professional career. In her 11th WNBA season, the guard is converting just 33.3 percent of her field attempts and a meager 20.3 percent from beyond the arc, both figures representing historic lows for the veteran.
Coach Nate Tibbetts has repeatedly emphasized that confidence remains the cornerstone of Copper’s approach, urging her to trust the process even as the numbers dip. “We know what she can do,” he said, “and we’re working with her to find the right moments to let her game flow.”
A season of adjustment
The Mercury’s 3‑8 start to the season reflects more than a single player’s slump; it is a collective challenge that has forced the roster to adapt early. While the team has struggled to click, the coaching staff has encouraged Copper to lean on her experience and to exploit the free‑throw line, a facet where she is currently reaching the charity stripe at a career‑high 7.1 times per game.
Recent outings suggest a subtle shift in Copper’s mindset. She has begun to attack the basket more aggressively, driving to the rim and drawing fouls, a strategy that not only creates additional scoring chances but also opens up passing lanes for teammates. The increased aggression appears to be paying dividends, as her recent performances have shown incremental improvements in shot selection.
Beyond the personal battle, the Mercury are navigating a competitive landscape that includes strong contenders such as the Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky, New York Liberty, Seattle Storm and the newly minted Toronto Tempo. The team’s ability to rally around Copper’s resilience will likely determine how quickly they can climb out of the early deficit and re‑establish themselves as playoff contenders.