Copper, a four-time All-Star and 2021 Finals MVP, emerged as the Mercury’s offensive centerpiece in 2025, averaging 15.6 points and 2.9 rebounds. During the playoffs, the All-Star averaged 17.8 points and 3.5 rebounds.

Sep 19, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) dribbles by New York Liberty guard Natasha Cloud (9) during the second half of game three of round one for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Copper’s scoring punch proved critical during Phoenix’s run to the WNBA Finals, including a 30-point performance in Game 4 against the Las Vegas Aces.
Bonner, a veteran forward and two-time champion with Phoenix, provided complementary production with 10.9 points after joining the Mercury midseason, while adding versatility with 4.3 rebounds.

Aug 3, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) goes to the basket against Chicago Sky guard Hailey Van Lith (2) during the first half at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
By retaining both players, the Mercury preserve playoff-tested experience that helped lead the club to a Finals run just a year before. Copper’s ability to generate offense, combined with Bonner’s length and defense, gives the organization a somewhat stabilized core alongside Alyssa Thomas, who has also rejoined Phoenix.
The signings aren’t just about roster construction, but also retaining familiarity. With many players finding new homes this offseason, including Satou Sabally, having two proven players re-sign with the Mercury reconnects the team’s identity.

Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) reacts after making a jumper shot against the New York Liberty late in the fourth quarter during Game Three of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs first round at PHX Arena on Sept. 19, 2025, in Phoenix. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
By committing to Copper, Bonner and Thomas, Phoenix is betting on that continuity as a path back to a fourth title.