Phoenix Mercury camp features surprise return and bold new face

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PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury officially tipped off their 2025 training camp this week by opening the doors to international experience, with overseas veterans Monique Akoa-Makani and Alexis Prince vying for a spot on the final roster.

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Sacrifice for a shot at her dream

Akoa-Makani plays for the Charnay Basket and is currently in the midst of playoffs. In her time with Charnay, she averaged 14.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 2.8 steals.

The Cameroonian-French guard decided to come to Phoenix on a training camp contract in hopes of making the Phoenix roster. Akoa-Makani said it was a hard choice but with the support of her coaches and teammates, she left for an opportunity in the desert.

“Nobody was trying to make me stay [with Charnay],” said Akoa-Makani. “I was like alright, I won’t stop myself to get [to Phoenix].”

Making a strong comeback

Prince previously played for Phoenix in 2017 and has been playing for Israeli club Elitzur Ramla. She averaged 19.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 blocks and 0.9 steals.

During her time overseas, Prince says she’s improved every year. She’s blessed with the chance to work towards a roster spot no matter where players come from.

“Seeing that you can go overseas and you can come play here,” Prince said. “There is an opportunity. Don’t get down on yourself, I always tell myself to stay ready.”

Monique Akoa-Makani speaks on her @PhoenixMercury training camp experience so far.#PhoenixMercury #PHXMercury #ValleyTogether pic.twitter.com/hEkYUFqVrY

— Burn City Sports (@BurnCitySports) May 1, 2025

Side by side

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

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