PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury announced they have signed Kiana Williams to a third seven-day contract and fans are wondering how she will fit into the team’s new rotation setup.
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Jul 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kiana Williams drives on Dallas Wings guard JJ Quinerly (11) in the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Williams has been with the Mercury on two separate occasions during the season. In six games with Phoenix, Williams averaged 5.0 points, 1.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists while shooting 50.0% from the field.
“I’m super thankful for Nick [U’Ren] and Nate [Tibbetts] being transparent with me and stuff,” Williams said after practice on Wednesday, according to Desert Wave Media’s David Veenstra. “I love Phoenix, I love this organization. It’s a really great group. I’m just thankful for the opportunity as always.”
Jul 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kiana Williams (23) against the Minnesota Lynx during the first half at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
However, questions were raised after the news broke of how Williams would be utilized with the Mercury’s new eight-player rotation. Kalani Brown, Kitija Laksa and Lexi Held have seen less playing time with this system.
ok but he claims he is sticking to an 8 player rotation. either way, if you sign her, play her. play the others too https://t.co/rPjoBaO8di
— no_defender2025 (@salexander1121) August 13, 2025
…I thought that rotation was down to the playoffs line up? somebody injured? https://t.co/r2mKEUeBSq
— Jemay 🧍🏾♀️ (@xXx_ImDOPE_) August 13, 2025
Hey, girl hey.
Missed you, sister. Now let’s see if Nate allows you on the court https://t.co/CLMszW4PVF— Alyssa Thomas’ ponytail (@YaGirlJiggy) August 13, 2025
Head coach Tibbetts has said he likes the eight-player rotation and doesn’t see it changing soon, after Phoenix’s game against the Atlanta Dream on Aug. 10. Although rotations aren’t set, he wants to continue the setup.
“We’re gonna have to continue to look at different lineups throughout the year and from game to game,” said Tibbetts, according to the team’s post-game recording. “But yeah, I like it.”
Jul 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) celebrates with teammates Kathryn Westbeld (24), Sami Whitcomb (33), Monique Akoa Makani (8) and DeWanna Bonner (24) against the Minnesota Lynx during the second half at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
While Williams brings depth to the roster, it’s uncertain what her role will be with Tibbetts’ eight-player rotation in place.
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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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