Sports
Phoenix Mercury Reflect on Drafts as Players Move On

PHOENIX, Arizona, USA — The Phoenix Mercury have faced challenges in their recent draft history, often securing only a few late-round picks. Despite this, the team has been able to identify talent that has transitioned to other teams in the WNBA.
In the 2019 WNBA Draft, the Mercury selected Alanna Smith with the eighth overall pick. Smith played for Phoenix from 2019 to 2021, averaging her best season in 2020 with 6.1 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. After her time with the Mercury, Smith joined the Indiana Fever in 2022 before making her way to the Minnesota Lynx for the 2024 season.
“I always appreciated my time with the Mercury; it helped me grow as a player,” said Smith, reflecting on her experiences. She has averaged 9.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in her current season.
Another notable draft pick was Sophie Cunningham, chosen in the second round. Known for her energetic personality, Cunningham’s impact grew over her time with the Mercury, especially in 2022 when she averaged 12.6 points per game. She became part of a significant trade this offseason, now playing for the Fever.
Cunningham’s departure is part of a broader trend for the Mercury, who struggled with a record of 9-31 in the 2023 season after previously reaching the WNBA Finals in 2021.
In the 2021 and 2022 drafts, the Mercury selected players like Ciera Johnson, Maya Dodson, and Macee Williams, but these selections did not last long with the team. Johnson was waived shortly after signing; Dodson’s contract was also cut in less than a month.
Despite these setbacks, the Mercury’s earlier drafts, particularly in 2019, demonstrated their capacity to discover talent. “We are always looking for that hidden gem,” said a team spokesman.
The path forward for the Mercury will involve tough decisions at the draft table as they seek to rebuild and reclaim their competitive edge in the WNBA.