Tuesday afternoon, the Phoenix Mercury graced the headlines in the WNBA as it was reported by Alexa Philippou that they agreed to a trade to acquire five-time all-star forward Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun.

In addition to Thomas, Phoenix acquired Tyasha Harris in return for Natasha Cloud, Rebecca Allen and the No. 12 pick in the 2025 draft.

Since this is technically before the official February 1 open date for free agency, it’s agreed upon in principle for the time being. With the acquisition of Thomas, fans and analysts alike were quick to create excitement for the possibility of another “Big 4” in Phoenix as Thomas would join their all-star trio of Diana Taurasi (who is still mulling retirement), Kahleah Copper and Brittney Griner.

Then the night fell and Griner was gone.

After spending the entirety of her 11-year career in Phoenix, Griner shocked the WNBA world by agreeing to a deal with the Atlanta Dream. In her time in Phoenix, Griner won a championship, was a ten-time all-star, six-time All-WNBA, and two-time Defensive Player of the Year. Not to mention leading the franchise in rebounds and blocks, and second only behind Taurasi on the franchise scoring list.

While it’s a bittersweet exit for the future hall of famer, the Mercury are in a position where they can transition into their next era as a franchise. Thomas has come into her own over the past three years, making the All-WNBA teams all three years while also nabbing some MVP consideration.

The Mercury most likely aren’t done making moves though. Thomas’ wife DeWanna Bonner is also an unrestricted free agent and has expressed interest in joining Thomas in Phoenix. They’re also expected to meet with two-time Dallas Wings all-star big Satou Sabally.

As for Atlanta, Griner’s one-year deal is the biggest free agency move in the franchise’s history. Much like Kelsey Plum‘s new role in Los Angeles, Griner joins a very young team led by the 2022 Rookie of the Year and two-time all-star forward Rhyne Howard as well as two-time all-star guard Allisha Gray.

Connecticut also seems to be preparing for a new chapter of the franchise. After a deadline acquisition of Marina Mabrey from Chicago, she stepped up tremendously posting averages of 14.9 points per game on 46.7% from the field and 42.4% from three. Mabrey is joined by the reigning Most Improved Player DiJonai Carrington, as well as Cloud from Phoenix who’s 6.9 assists per game ranked third in the entire league.

With free agency just getting underway, the madness is only getting started. Stay tuned to our content to catch the latest WNBA updates.

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