3 Key WNBA Free Agents Who Could Boost Phoenix Mercury's Title Hopes

The Mercury have some crucial decisions to make in free agency as they aim to return to the WNBA Finals.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:05am

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The Phoenix Mercury are facing a pivotal offseason as they look to build on their recent success and make a run at the WNBA championship. Three key free agent targets that could reshape their trajectory are Alanna Smith, Azura Stevens, and Alyssa Thomas.

Why it matters

The Mercury are eyeing a return to the WNBA Finals and a shot at their fourth championship. Securing the right free agent talent will be crucial to their championship aspirations.

The details

Alanna Smith, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, could provide a dominant defensive presence in the paint and offensive versatility to complement the Mercury's existing roster. Azura Stevens is coming off a breakout season and could unlock the Mercury's creative offensive schemes with her stretch-five capabilities. Alyssa Thomas, who had a career-best season and was in contention for MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, is seen as a no-brainer to bring back and maintain the team's chemistry and leadership.

  • The WNBA offseason is currently underway.

The players

Alanna Smith

A dominant big man who is the reigning WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, known for her ability to block shots and alter opposing offenses.

Azura Stevens

A versatile center who had a breakout season and could provide offensive firepower and playmaking ability from the center position.

Alyssa Thomas

A veteran forward who had a career-best season, was in contention for MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, and is seen as a key leader and cornerstone of the Mercury.

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What’s next

The Mercury will need to navigate the free agency period and make strategic decisions on which players to prioritize in order to build a championship-contending roster.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Mercury are at a critical juncture in their quest for a WNBA championship. By targeting key free agents like Alanna Smith, Azura Stevens, and Alyssa Thomas, they can solidify their position as true title contenders and build on their recent success.