Phoenix, October 20, 2025
News Summary
The Phoenix Mercury made a significant transformation this season, clinching a spot in the WNBA Finals after three consecutive losing seasons. General manager Nick U’Ren’s aggressive strategy led to parting ways with franchise legends and acquiring top talents, forming a new ‘Big Three.’ The team showcased its potential, achieving a record of 27-17 and advancing through playoffs. Despite falling to the Las Vegas Aces in the finals, the Mercury aim to build on their momentum amidst player free agency challenges.
Phoenix
The Phoenix Mercury made a remarkable turnaround this season, transforming their roster significantly and clinching a spot in the WNBA Finals after three consecutive losing seasons. The team’s aggressive strategy to reconfigure its lineup paid off, showcasing its potential with a strong performance that captivated fans and analysts alike.
General manager Nick U’Ren was determined to reshape the Mercury’s identity. This ambitious overhaul included parting ways with franchise legends Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner. U’Ren executed a historic trade, the largest in WNBA history, which brought key players Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally to Phoenix, alongside Kahleah Copper, forming a formidable trio dubbed the new “Big Three.”
Thomas has been consistently recognized as an MVP candidate, while Sabally emerged as a rising star. Copper’s all-around skills positioned her as a reliable contributor. U’Ren aimed to build a competitive team swiftly, sidestepping a complete rebuild while making bold moves to secure the team’s future.
The Mercury concluded the regular season with a record of 27-17, exceeding preseason expectations where they were ranked seventh out of 13 teams. Their impressive performance continued as they advanced through the playoffs, defeating the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx to reach the finals.
Alyssa Thomas showcased her exceptional talent, achieving a WNBA record with eight triple-doubles throughout the regular season while receiving selections to both the First Team All-WNBA and All-Defensive Teams. During the playoffs, Satou Sabally led the Mercury in scoring, averaging 16.3 points per game and earning an All-Star starter position in her inaugural season with the franchise.
The mid-season return of DeWanna Bonner, a former Mercury cornerstone, provided the team with critical experience as they made their playoff run. However, the Mercury’s quest for championship glory concluded with a sweep in the finals against the Las Vegas Aces, who secured their third championship title.
A key element of the Mercury’s success has been the positive team culture fostered by U’Ren and head coach Nate Tibbetts, emphasizing transparency, respect, and a shared desire to win. However, upcoming negotiations related to the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) may present challenges, as nearly all WNBA players will enter free agency.
A major portion of the Mercury’s roster—comprising critical players like Thomas, Sabally, Copper, and Bonner—are unrestricted free agents, potentially hindering the team’s continuity heading into the next season. Despite these uncertainties, the Mercury aim to build on this season’s successes, with U’Ren already contemplating future moves to enhance the team’s prospects.
Furthermore, the contributions of rookie Monique Akoa Makani have been significant, as she became the first Cameroonian player to appear on a WNBA Finals roster, making a notable impact during her debut season.
Upcoming Challenges and Future Plans
As the Mercury set their sights on the future, maintaining the newly formed roster’s chemistry and ensuring the continued presence of key players will be paramount. Strategic planning in light of the impending free agency will determine how the team builds upon this season’s momentum.
Key Statistics of the Phoenix Mercury’s Season
- Regular Season Record: 27-17
- Alyssa Thomas: 8 Triple-Doubles in Regular Season
- Satou Sabally: 16.3 Points Per Game in Playoffs
- Team Culture: Focused on Transparency & Mutual Respect
FAQ
What major changes did the Phoenix Mercury make in the offseason?
The Mercury underwent a significant roster overhaul, parting ways with franchise players Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, and trading for Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, and Kahleah Copper, forming a new “Big Three.”
What was the Mercury’s record during the regular season?
The Phoenix Mercury finished the regular season with a record of 27-17.
How did the Mercury perform in the playoffs?
The Mercury advanced to the WNBA Finals after defeating both the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx in the playoffs, ultimately losing in the finals to the Las Vegas Aces.
What factors contributed to the Mercury’s success this season?
The Mercury’s success was attributed to the established team culture focused on transparency, mutual respect, and the outstanding performances from key players like Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Regular Season Record | 27-17 |
| Key Additions | Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper |
| Playoff Performance | Defeated New York Liberty, Minnesota Lynx; reached WNBA Finals |
| Player Highlights | Alyssa Thomas – 8 triple-doubles; Satou Sabally – 16.3 PPG in playoffs |
| Team Culture | Emphasis on transparency and mutual respect |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tensions Rise in the WNBA Amid Crucial CBA Negotiations
NBA Regains Control of NBA TV and Streaming Services
Phoenix Mercury’s Legacy in WNBA Playoffs
New York Liberty Parts Ways with Head Coach Sandy Brondello
Las Vegas Aces Dominate Phoenix Mercury in Game 2
PHX Arena Rebrands to Mortgage Matchup Center
Phoenix Mercury Takes Lead Against Minnesota Lynx
Phoenix Mercury Transforms Women’s Basketball Landscape
Minnesota Lynx Set to Face Phoenix Mercury in WNBA Semifinals
Phoenix Mercury Pursue Championship Glory Against Lynx
Additional Resources
- SI: Mercury vs Wings Overview
- Wikipedia: Phoenix Mercury
- Review Journal: Jackie Young Profile
- Google Search: WNBA 2025 Playoffs
- ESPN: WNBA Finals 2025 Preview
- Encyclopedia Britannica: WNBA
- The Next: Mercury Roster Reshape
- Google News: Phoenix Mercury 2025
- Fever: Player Review – Sophie Cunningham
- Google Scholar: WNBA Articles
- Burn City Sports: Akoa Makani Reflection
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
