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Alyssa Thomas’ frustration puts Phoenix Mercury under pressure to make offseason changes

Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas expressed sharp disappointment after the team’s 16-28 finish in the 2026 WNBA season, ending a playoff streak that included three WNBA Finals appearances since 2017. The franchise’s abrupt drop from a championship run in 2025 to a missed postseason has intensified pressure on the organization to overhaul its roster, particularly as Thomas—now 34—remains a cornerstone of its title ambitions.

While she praised the team’s treatment of her, Thomas made it clear that another subpar season would not align with her expectations, emphasizing the need for tangible progress in 2027 to regain contention status.

The Mercury’s offseason decisions will hinge on Kelsey Plum’s future, acquired near last year’s trade deadline to bolster a core that already includes Thomas and Kahleah Copper. Plum’s limited role—she played just five games due to injury—left unanswered questions about how the trio could function together, despite general manager Nick U’Ren’s public commitment to retaining her.

With Thomas demanding a return to championship-level play, Phoenix faces a critical juncture: balancing roster construction with the urgency of her championship-driven mindset.

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