Mercury Must Re-Sign 3 Key Free Agents to Contend

Phoenix looks to build on WNBA Finals appearance with critical offseason moves

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:39am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented basketball players and a ball, conveying the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of a WNBA game.The Mercury's quest to build a championship roster takes center stage in the unpredictable 2026 WNBA free agency period.Phoenix Today

The Phoenix Mercury are facing a crucial offseason after making a surprise run to the 2026 WNBA Finals. To remain a contender, the team must re-sign three key free agents - Brittney Griner, Ezi Magbegor, and Skylar Diggins-Smith.

Why it matters

The Mercury are at a crossroads after an unexpected Finals appearance. Retaining their core stars is vital to maintaining their status as an elite WNBA franchise and contending for a championship in the coming seasons.

The details

Brittney Griner, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is a must-sign for the Mercury. Her elite rim protection and interior presence are crucial to the team's defensive identity. Ezi Magbegor is a versatile forward who can space the floor and protect the paint, providing valuable depth. Skylar Diggins-Smith is the team's star point guard and primary playmaker, orchestrating the offense and leading the team to the Finals.

  • The 2026 WNBA free agency period began on April 1st.
  • The Mercury made a surprise run to the 2026 WNBA Finals.

The players

Brittney Griner

A dominant center and the reigning WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, Griner is a key part of the Mercury's identity on both ends of the floor.

Ezi Magbegor

A versatile forward who can protect the rim and stretch the floor, Magbegor provides valuable depth and complementary skills to the Mercury's roster.

Skylar Diggins-Smith

The Mercury's star point guard and primary playmaker, Diggins-Smith led the team to the 2026 WNBA Finals and is essential to their championship aspirations.

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What they’re saying

“Brittney Griner is the anchor of our defense and a game-changer on that end of the floor. Keeping her is our top priority this offseason.”

— Nate Tibbetts, Head Coach, Phoenix Mercury

“Ezi has grown so much over the past few years, and her two-way versatility is a perfect fit for our team. We want her to be a part of our future.”

— Jim Pitman, General Manager, Phoenix Mercury

“Skylar is the engine that makes us go. Her leadership and playmaking are irreplaceable, and we're determined to keep her in Phoenix.”

— Nate Tibbetts, Head Coach, Phoenix Mercury

What’s next

The Mercury will look to finalize contract negotiations with Griner, Magbegor, and Diggins-Smith before the start of the 2026 WNBA season.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Mercury are at a critical juncture after their surprise Finals appearance. Retaining their core trio of Griner, Magbegor, and Diggins-Smith is essential to maintaining their status as an elite WNBA franchise and contending for a championship in the coming seasons.