Alyssa Thomas Signs with Phoenix Mercury: A New Big Three in the WNBA

The veteran forward's move to the Mercury could reshape the WNBA's dynamics.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a WNBA basketball game, with players and the court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, capturing the dynamic and evolving nature of the league.The strategic signing of veteran forward Alyssa Thomas signals a new era of versatility and innovation in the WNBA.Phoenix Today

Alyssa Thomas, a 33-year-old veteran forward, is close to signing a deal to rejoin the Phoenix Mercury. This move marks a strategic decision that could reshape the WNBA's dynamics, as Thomas will join a star-studded lineup featuring Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper, forming a new 'Big Three' in the league.

Why it matters

Thomas' move to the Mercury is more than just a player changing teams. It's a testament to her versatility and basketball IQ, as she adapted to a new role as a point-forward, leading the league in assists. The formation of the Mercury's 'Big Three' could set a new standard for team-building in the WNBA, challenging the conventional wisdom about player development and roster construction.

The details

Alyssa Thomas spent a decade with the Connecticut franchise, establishing herself as a versatile player. Her move to Phoenix in 2025 marked a turning point, as the Mercury utilized her as a point-forward, emphasizing her playmaking abilities. This strategic shift paid off, as Thomas recorded a career-high in assists, showcasing her court vision and leadership. The Mercury's decision to form a 'Big Three' with Thomas, Sabally, and Copper brought a unique blend of skills, with Thomas as the orchestrator. Her ability to facilitate and distribute the ball created a balanced offensive threat, making the Mercury a force to be reckoned with.

  • In 2025, Alyssa Thomas joined the Phoenix Mercury.
  • In the 2025 season, Thomas recorded a career-high in assists as the Mercury's point-forward.

The players

Alyssa Thomas

A 33-year-old veteran forward who spent a decade with the Connecticut franchise before joining the Phoenix Mercury in 2025, where she adapted to a new role as a point-forward and led the league in assists.

Satou Sabally

A star player on the Phoenix Mercury, forming the team's 'Big Three' alongside Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper.

Kahleah Copper

A star player on the Phoenix Mercury, forming the team's 'Big Three' alongside Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally.

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What’s next

The basketball community is eager to see Alyssa Thomas officially sign with the Phoenix Mercury and witness the impact of the team's new 'Big Three' on the WNBA landscape.

The takeaway

Alyssa Thomas' move to the Phoenix Mercury showcases the value of versatility and adaptability in professional sports. Her ability to thrive in a new role as a point-forward challenges the conventional wisdom about player development and roster construction, inspiring a shift in how teams approach team-building in the WNBA.