Alyssa Thomas joined the Phoenix Mercury in 2023 and immediately became one of the team’s standout players, delivering an exceptional season. As a powerful forward, she set a league record by recording eight triple-doubles during her first year, helping propel the Mercury to the WNBA Finals. Her outstanding performance also earned her recognition as a top Most Valuable Player (MVP) candidate.
Over the course of the season, Thomas averaged an impressive 15.4 points, 9.2 assists, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, showcasing her versatility on the court and her critical role in Phoenix’s success.
Thomas’ Career Before Joining Phoenix
Before joining the Mercury, Alyssa Thomas was a key figure with the Connecticut Sun, the team with which she began her WNBA career after being drafted by the New York Liberty and quickly traded. During her final season with Connecticut, Thomas maintained solid stats, averaging 10.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 1.6 steals. Her efforts earned her a spot as an MVP candidate where she placed fifth in the race, while A’ja Wilson of the Sun secured the award unanimously for the third time.
Throughout her tenure with Connecticut, Thomas was a six-time All-Star and contributed significantly to the team’s strong 28-12 record in her last season.
Rivalry Renewed: Thomas Faces Former Team in 2024
In the 2024 season, Thomas and the Phoenix Mercury faced former teammates when matched against the Connecticut Sun. The Sun dominated the season series with a sweep, relying in part on Thomas’ experience and leadership. In their first encounter, Thomas posted 10 points, eight assists, and six rebounds, but the Sun overpowered the Mercury with a 70-47 victory.
Continuing their momentum, Connecticut secured an 83-72 win in the second matchup, with Thomas contributing 12 rebounds, 10 points, six assists, and two blocks. Despite Kahleah Copper’s 21 points for Phoenix, the team could not overcome Connecticut’s dominance.
During the third contest, Thomas’s output was quieter with six points, five rebounds, and three assists, but Connecticut still earned a win. Copper led Phoenix with 17 points.
The decisive fourth game saw the Sun completing their sweep with an 88-69 victory, with Thomas providing 11 assists, underscoring her playmaking ability.
The Rise of Alyssa Thomas in the Western Conference
Transitioning from the Eastern Conference to the Western Conference, Alyssa Thomas has quickly risen as one of the premier players in the league. Her dynamic skills and determination have reshaped the Phoenix Mercury’s competitiveness, highlighting her influence not just statistically but as a leader on the floor.
Thomas’s remarkable 2023 season and ongoing 2024 efforts emphasize her status as one of the WNBA’s most impactful athletes and underline her potential to guide Phoenix to future success.
