It was perfect timing for Kahleah Copper, who celebrated her 31st birthday on August 28. A Win against the Chicago Sky, a strong fourth-place finish, and a game-high 28 points for the Mercury guard. The former WNBA Finals MVP had a blast on her big day.
But it’s not the first time she has made the headlines in the 2025 season. From Copper’s viral wing fall incident to her attending Candace Parker’s jersey retirement ceremony, the former Rueter’s player has been in the news throughout the season. But her 31st birthday was different, as she had special demands for her coaches.
Kahleah Copper’s Birthday Wish For WNBA Coaches
The scenes at the PHX arena were different. Fans used to see the coaches and players in sports attire, and saw a different bench altogether as HC Tibbetts and his staff in suits. The stylish look was a special gift for team’s leading scorer.
“It was just my idea, just something different. I just got tired of seeing them in sweats, and it was my birthday. Like I want to see y’all. Go dress up. Go find yourself something nice,” Kahleah Copper said in a post-game interview.
She even gave her staff 10/10 for their looks and was happy with the staff honoring her request. HC Tibbetts also reacted to an unusual request and admitted that they looked sharp, but it might be the last time they wear suits to a basketball game. Tibbetts also campaigns for Alyssa Thomas’ MVP chances in the press conference.
“This was a request from Kahleah. I haven’t worn a suit to a game in about five years, in the old NBA days. I think it was a good change of pace,” Tibbets said.
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Phoenix Mercury wing Kahleah Copper said it was her idea for the coaches to wear suits and she gave them a 10/10.
— Desert Wave Media (@DesertWaveCo) August 29, 2025
“I just got tired of seeing them in sweats, and it was my birthday. Like I want to see y’all. Go dress up. Go find yourself something nice.”#WNBA pic.twitter.com/dlwyaMDjhO
The guard celebrated her birthday with a solid 28-point performance as the Mercury defeated the Sky 83-79. Despite the defeat, Angel Reese still has a surprise for he close friend on her birthday.
Angel Reese Gives a Present To Kahleah Copper On Her Birthday
Taking advantage of a game against the veteran star, Angel Reese gave her a potted plant and balloons as a birthday gift. The two stars formed a strong bond playing alongside each other during the Unrivaled games. The Phoenix Mercury franchise shared the video praising the Chi-Town Barbie for her gesture.
the birthday girl and the Bayou Barbie 🥹🫶 pic.twitter.com/lT521tPgEM
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) August 29, 2025
Earlier in the season, a lovely hug between Angel Reese and Copper went viral, showing her affection towards the Chicago Sky forward. The veteran player even mentioned that she is ready to mentor rookies.
In the game, both players shone for their respective teams, as the former LSU star had another double-double performance with 15 points and 20 rebounds. She also had two blocks and four assists completing an all-around performance for the bottom-placed Sky.