Alyssa Thomas Returns to Phoenix Mercury for Title Push

After the best statistical season of her career, Alyssa Thomas is returning to the Phoenix Mercury to chase the championship ring that slipped through her fingers last October.

The 33-year-old point-forward is finalizing a contract to stay in Phoenix, according to sources close to the negotiations. Thomas led the WNBA in assists last season and finished third in MVP voting after averaging nearly a triple-double.

Her first year with the Mercury proved everything she hoped for when she left Connecticut after 11 seasons. Thomas averaged 15.4 points, 9.2 assists, and 8.8 rebounds per game while shooting a career-best 53.2% from the field.

The six-time All-Star didn't just put up numbers. She rewrote the record books, tallying 357 assists to break Caitlin Clark's single-season assist record of 337 set just one year earlier.

Thomas also notched eight triple-doubles during the season, bringing her career total to 19. No player in WNBA history has more.

Why This Inspires

Thomas's journey shows that sometimes a fresh start can unlock new heights. After giving Connecticut everything for over a decade, including two Finals appearances, she made the brave choice to chase her dream elsewhere.

The gamble paid off immediately. Phoenix returned to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2021, with Thomas orchestrating the offense as the team's floor general.

Though the Mercury were swept by the Las Vegas Aces in the championship series, Thomas stayed focused on the bigger picture. "It's been a great season," she said after the Finals loss. "We have a lot to build on."

The team will look different this year. Satou Sabally confirmed she won't return, and Kahleah Copper remains a free agent. But with Thomas committed and coach Nate Tibbetts building around her unique talents, Phoenix has a foundation to compete.

At 33, Thomas is proving age is just a number. She's playing the best basketball of her 12-year career and showing no signs of slowing down.

Her return gives Phoenix and its fans exactly what they need: hope that this year might finally be the one.