How Marta Suarez found stability and opportunity with the Phoenix Mercury

May 10, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Marta Suarez (77) before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images PHOENIX — If there’s anyone who might know the whirlwind of the WNBA, it’s Phoenix Mercury rookie Marta Suarez. Suarez, a former TCU standout, has had her name involved with three different teams in her relatively short time in the league.

She was drafted with the No. 16 overall pick by the Seattle Storm before being traded to the Golden State Valkyries. Although she saw action with Golden State in the preseason, she was eventually waived as roster cuts and shakeups happened before the regular season.

The forward then signed one of two developmental contracts with the Mercury, but said she was offered the same contract to stay with the Valkyries. According to The Podium Finish’s Conrado Pascual, she felt Phoenix was a “better fit. ” Mar 28, 2026; Sacramento, CA, USA; Texas Christian University Horned Frogs forward Marta Suarez (7) drives to the basket against the Virginia Cavaliers in the Sweet Sixteen game of the Sacramento Regional 4 of the women’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Golden 1 Center.

Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images That decision fits a broader pattern for the Mercury, which has positioned itself as a destination for both established talent and young players looking to grow in a competitive, resource-driven environment. From veteran leadership to organizational stability, Phoenix continues to stand out as an attractive landing spot across the league. For Suarez, the developmental contract represents both an opportunity and a chance to grow within a system the organization believes can unlock her potential.