Phoenix, AZ—-The Phoenix Mercury are entering the 2026 season with renewed focus and championship expectations, led by stars Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper. After reaching the WNBA Finals last season, Phoenix is aiming to build on that momentum—despite a notable roster change.
Forward Satou Sabally departed in free agency to join the New York Liberty, a move that caught many off guard following one of the best seasons of her career. Still, the Mercury remain confident in their direction.
Speaking after the first day of training camp, Thomas emphasized the team’s resilience and belief in its system.
“We’re going to continue to do what we do,” she said. “Last year showed that even with different players in and out of the lineup, we’re capable of a lot. We’re just focused on moving forward, and we wish her the best.”
Copper echoed that sentiment, taking a broader view of player movement across the league—especially in light of the evolving landscape under the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement.
“Everyone has to do what’s best for them,” Copper said. “That’s the most important thing. I wish her nothing but success—she’s going to be great.”
While Sabally’s exit leaves a gap, Phoenix gains something it lacked a year ago: continuity. The Mercury return eight players from last season’s roster, a significant jump from just two returners the year before. That stability could prove crucial in a league where chemistry often separates contenders from the rest.
During free agency, some questioned Phoenix’s relatively quiet approach compared to teams like the Dallas Wings and Los Angeles Sparks, both of which made aggressive roster moves. However, the Mercury appear committed to building around the core that already proved it can compete at the highest level.
Veteran forward DeWanna Bonner also highlighted the broader impact of the league’s new CBA, particularly for players balancing family and financial security.
“As a mom, this means everything,” Bonner said. “Knowing my kids will be taken care of—that’s always my biggest concern. It’s not just about me. It’s also exciting to see what this means for the next generation of players. The growth we’re seeing is long overdue, and it’s well deserved.”
Guard Kiana Williams pointed to another major shift: increased financial stability for players, which could reduce the need to play overseas during the offseason.
“It’s a great opportunity,” Williams said. “In the past, you had to go overseas to make enough money. Now, you have a choice. With higher salaries in the league, it changes everything.”
With a strong veteran core, improved continuity, and a rapidly evolving league landscape, the Mercury are positioning themselves for another deep postseason run—this time with even greater stability and purpose.
