The Phoenix Mercury made a strong showing during the 2025 WNBA season, finishing with a 27-17 record and reaching the WNBA Finals for the sixth time in the franchise’s history. They secured victories over the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx before facing the Las Vegas Aces in the championship. The Aces ultimately won their third title, ending the Mercury’s playoff run. During this successful season, the Mercury brought in new talent, including key acquisitions Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, as well as rookies Monique Akoa Makani and Lexi Held. Among other players signed during the preseason was Shyla Heal, who joined the team on a training camp deal in March.
Heal’s path through the WNBA and training camps
Shyla Heal initially entered the WNBA when she was selected as the eighth overall pick by the Chicago Sky in the 2021 draft. Her draft class included Charli Collier, Michaela Onyenwere, Natasha Mack, and Kiana Williams, with three of these players later joining the Phoenix Mercury. The Mercury also drafted Ciera Johnson in the third round that year. Heal’s stint with Chicago saw limited court time, as she averaged two points during her appearances before being traded to the Dallas Wings. Soon after, she was waived by Dallas, which marked a hiatus from the league until her return via Phoenix’s training camp.
Brief but impactful preseason moments with the Mercury
While waiting to rejoin the WNBA, Heal competed in Australia’s Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL), maintaining her competitive edge. Upon signing with Phoenix in 2025, she took part in two preseason games. In the matchup against the Las Vegas Aces, Heal played eight minutes, contributing seven rebounds along with three points and two assists. By Phoenix’s second preseason game against the Golden State Valkyries, Heal was no longer with the team, and other training camp hopefuls took the court instead. Although Heal’s time with the Mercury was short-lived, the organization provided her a valuable opportunity to showcase her skills while fine-tuning their roster.
Anticipation around Heal’s next career steps
Shyla Heal’s journey with Phoenix reflects the uncertainties and hopes many young players face in professional basketball. While her current stint was brief, it demonstrated potential amidst the competitive atmosphere of a championship-contending roster. Fans and analysts alike remain eager to see where Heal’s talent will lead her next, as the Mercury continue shaping their squad for future success. Updates on Heal and other Phoenix Mercury-related stories will remain in focus as the WNBA offseason develops.
