The 2025 season was one of the most unpredictable seasons for many reasons, as injuries, officiating, and surprises played significant roles in the outcomes of many games. Yet one team that remained consistent and a formidable force throughout the season was the Phoenix Mercury.
Their team leadership and chemistry led them to the WNBA finals. Even after the finals, the side was seen as one of the brightest spots in the season. Now, though, there is a big question over the next moves for the Mercury in the 2026 WNBA offseason. The team can take a page from the 1998 Mercury roster, which set an example for team building.
The 1998 Phoenix Mercury Team Set The Way For Successful Team
The WNBA is constantly evolving with new players and coaches introducing a new style of play, new capabilities, and excitement to the games. The early years of the league also had a similar ‘newness’ to it, with multiple powerhouses competing for the top four franchises, while teams like the Mercury had the opportunity to play with role players.
Yet the 1998 side was one of the prime examples of how the Mercury team rose to the occasion behind a ‘well-built roster’ and reached the finals with a breakthrough 19-11 record.
The 1997 team had many stars capable of making it to the postseason, but couldn’t pose a challenge to the contender teams. In 1998, the side added Michelle Brogan and Mikiko Hagiwara via trade. Making some more adjustments, they said depth with Kristi Harrower, who signed with the team before the start of the season. Then, they had others like Brandy Reed, Maria Stepanova, and Pauline Jordan.
2025. A year Mercury fans will never forget.
— PHNX Mercury (@PHNX_Mercury) October 11, 2025
Thank you, Phoenix Mercury.
It has been an incredible ride. pic.twitter.com/f8GscMEHsO
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The newly formed team was significantly more potent, having been upgraded with a mix of young players and veteran guidance. The 2025 Mercury Team also has a similar situation right now on their plate.
Phoenix Mercury could Bring Back Whole Squad For Upcoming Season
Nate Tibbetts was happy with his roster, which put them in the finals. Even the team environment suited the player who performed at their best throughout the season. Alyssa Thomas even praised the assistant coach, Kristi Toliver, who had a significant impact on her game for a long time.
With this in mind, the priority for the Mercury team would be to keep its core intact amid the big offseason market. They will also look to keep adding the perfect backups at every position to make the final push for the championship in the upcoming seasons. The forward trio remains a priority for the side, and management will look to secure their signature first as the CBA negotiations reach their conclusion.