Alyssa Thomas Leads Phoenix Mercury's WNBA Title Charge

Star forward set to return after near triple-double season

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:11pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a WNBA basketball game, with overlapping planes of bright team colors representing the dynamic action on the court.Alyssa Thomas' return to the Phoenix Mercury injects the team with championship-caliber talent and experience.Phoenix Today

Alyssa Thomas is expected to return to the Phoenix Mercury for the upcoming WNBA season, after a standout campaign in 2025 where she finished third in MVP voting. Thomas averaged a near triple-double with 15.4 points, a league-high 9.2 assists, and 8.8 rebounds per game, helping the Mercury reach the playoffs.

Why it matters

Thomas' return gives the Mercury a strong chance to compete for the WNBA championship this season. As one of the league's elite all-around players, her presence will be crucial in the team's title aspirations.

The details

In her first season with the Mercury, Thomas had the most efficient year of her career, posting career-highs in assists and rebounds while remaining a scoring threat. Her ability to stuff the stat sheet makes her one of the most valuable players in the WNBA.

  • The 2026 WNBA season is set to tip off in May.

The players

Alyssa Thomas

A star forward for the Phoenix Mercury who finished third in MVP voting last season after averaging a near triple-double.

Phoenix Mercury

A professional women's basketball team based in Phoenix, Arizona that competes in the WNBA.

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What’s next

The Mercury will look to build on their playoff appearance last season and make a deep run in the 2026 WNBA postseason with Thomas leading the way.

The takeaway

Alyssa Thomas' return to the Phoenix Mercury gives the team a legitimate chance to compete for a WNBA championship this season, as she is one of the league's most well-rounded and dominant players.