Skylar Diggins-Smith Says Mercury Won’t Let Her Use Team Facilities

The star guard wasn’t shy about expressing her dismay at the team’s treatment of her while she’s been on maternity leave.

Mercury star Skylar Diggins-Smith has not played this season as she is on maternity leave, and it turns out she doesn’t feel like she’s a member of the team at all.

A Phoneix fan on Twitter noticed that the team’s social media account didn’t wish Diggins-Smith a happy birthday this week, and in turn, the guard used the opportunity to air some grievances regarding her treatment as she has been away from the team.

“They’re not gonna acknowledge me this year and it’s OK guys,” Diggins-Smith tweeted. “We’re not affiliated unless it’s the checks....per management. I can’t even use the practice facility or any resources. But I still love the X-Factor!!” 

They’re not gonna acknowledge me this year and it’s ok guys. We’re not affiliated unless it’s the checks….per management. I can’t even use the practice facility or any resources. But I still love the X-Factor!! https://t.co/lcDb05fVVg

— Skylar Diggins-Smith (@SkyDigg4) August 3, 2023

Diggins-Smith wasn’t done. When WNBA writer Matt Ellentuck reacted to the guard’s initial tweet about her inability to use the team’s practice facility, she further elaborated.

“Sadly, no…or any massage therapists, chiropractor, chefs, strength and conditioning, nutritionist accessibility, etc… they (sic) EVERY other player has access to. However I’m still down 48 lbs on my own and I’m feeling great!” She added.

Sadly, no…or any massage therapists, chiropractor, chefs, strength and conditioning, nutritionist accessibility, etc… they EVERY other player has access to.
However I’m still down 48lbs on my own and I’m feeling great! 💪🏽 https://t.co/rRkJpIxysF

— Skylar Diggins-Smith (@SkyDigg4) August 3, 2023

Diggins-Smith is clearly inching closer to a return to action, but it is unclear if she will be suiting up for the team at all this season. However, the recent actions of the Mercury may indicate that the franchise has no immediate plans for her to return to play as Phoenix sits at 6–19 on the season and well out of playoff contention.