Mercury’s Valériane Ayayi finds plenty to like since arriving to Phoenix
Mercury forward Valeriane Ayayi poses for a picture during the Phoenix Mercury media day in Phoenix, on May 6, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images PHOENIX — French forward Valériane Ayayi has had an interesting first impression since arriving in the Valley to join the Phoenix Mercury, with a level of support and professionalism that has stood out most to her so far. Mercury forward Valeriane Ayayi poses for a picture during the Phoenix Mercury media day in Phoenix, on May 6, 2026.
© Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Ayayi is no stranger to the WNBA, having previously played one season with the San Antonio Stars in 2015. While her career would steer her away from the league for some time, the forward has found her way back to join the Mercury’s ranks — including a reunion with former EuroLeague teammate Alyssa Thomas. But beyond familiarity with the W and one of the cornerstones of the club, Ayayi said the organization’s investment in its players has left the strongest impact both on and off the court.
“[The] facilities, I would say,” Ayayi said when asked what had surprised her most. “I would say that’s really like the biggest thing that I’m like, ‘Wow, this is amazing,’ and that this is something serious. ” Phoenix has had a reputation for player investment over the course of its history, including a brand-new training facility that opened in 2024.
For Ayayi, the attention to detail has reinforced that reputation around the league. The care goes beyond the court as well, as the forward also pointed to the people in the organization as another aspect that has stood out to her. It is not the first time a Mercury player has credited the organization for its care and home-like feel, but Ayayi’s comments reinforce that same notion of why the Valley has felt welcoming for players.
“As I already said, I love the people here,” she said. “That’s also a big aspect for me because I’m [a] people person. I’m really into people and the care they have for me; the care for my family is huge for me.