‘This was my first choice’: Phoenix Mercury’s Sami Whitcomb lands where she always planned
PHOENIX — Phoenix Mercury’s Sami Whitcomb never hid where she wanted to spend the 2026 WNBA season. Oct 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) against the Las Vegas Aces during game three of the 2025 WNBA Finals at PHX Arena.
Jul 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) reacts against the Minnesota Lynx during the second half at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images PHOENIX — Phoenix Mercury’s Sami Whitcomb never hid where she wanted to spend the 2026 WNBA season.
Oct 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) against the Las Vegas Aces during game three of the 2025 WNBA Finals at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images “[Phoenix] was my first choice,” Whitcomb said.
“I have no problem saying that. I told [the Mercury] that when I left. This is where I wanted to be.
” The WNBA’s CBA negotiations stretched deep into the offseason, creating unease across teams and front offices. At times, the delay raised concerns about whether the 2026 season would even begin on time — leaving players like Whitcomb to navigate an unpredictable few months. After an offseason filled with uncertainty surrounding the CBA, Whitcomb is back in the Valley on a two-year deal — a move that brings continuity and stability to both the player and organization at a pivotal moment.