Alyssa Thomas Returns to Phoenix Mercury in WNBA Free Agency

The star forward's move back to Phoenix could be a game-changer for the team's championship aspirations.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:09pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a WNBA basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the strategic and dynamic nature of the sport.The dynamic, multi-faceted game of Alyssa Thomas is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, reflecting the strategic complexity of building a championship-caliber WNBA roster around her talents.Phoenix Today

The WNBA free agency period has brought exciting news with Alyssa Thomas' expected return to the Phoenix Mercury. Thomas, a dominant all-around player known as the 'triple-double queen', averaged impressive stats last season including 15.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. Her presence was crucial to the Mercury's run to the WNBA Finals in 2025, and her re-signing is a strategic move by the team to contend for the championship once again.

Why it matters

Thomas' return to the Mercury is a significant development that could have major implications for the team's championship aspirations. As a key piece of the Mercury's success in 2025, her all-around game and leadership skills make her an invaluable asset. The challenge now lies in the Mercury constructing a winning roster around Thomas, as they look to strike the right balance between individual talent and team chemistry to make a championship run.

The details

The Mercury's decision to re-sign Thomas is a clear indication of their goal to contend for the WNBA Championship. While the team's core may see some changes, with Satou Sabally departing, the potential return of Kahleah Copper could provide some continuity. However, the real challenge will be in building a cohesive unit around Thomas, as the Mercury currently have the 7th best odds to win the championship - a ranking that may be an underestimate given Thomas' impact.

  • Alyssa Thomas averaged impressive stats last season, including 15.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game.
  • Thomas was a key piece in the Mercury's run to the WNBA Finals in 2025.

The players

Alyssa Thomas

A dominant all-around player known as the 'triple-double queen', who has been a crucial part of the Phoenix Mercury's success.

Satou Sabally

A departing player from the Phoenix Mercury's core roster.

Kahleah Copper

A player who could potentially return to the Phoenix Mercury, providing some continuity to the team's roster.

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What’s next

The Mercury's front office will need to make some smart moves to surround Thomas with the right talent and create a cohesive unit that can make a championship run.

The takeaway

The Alyssa Thomas signing is a significant development that could be a game-changer for the Phoenix Mercury. Her all-around game and leadership skills make her an invaluable asset, and the team's ability to build a winning roster around her will be crucial in their quest for the WNBA Championship.