PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury are bringing back a familiar face ahead of their Commissioner’s Cup matchup on Monday.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Welcome back, @lexi_held!! pic.twitter.com/9IgCDNKedQ
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) June 1, 2026
According to the team, Phoenix has signed guard Lexi Held, who appeared in 32 games with the Mercury during her rookie season last year. The signing comes after Held was waived by the Toronto Tempo a few days ago. She was selected by Toronto with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Expansion Draft.
The move comes as Phoenix looks to add depth following a turbulent start to the season. The Mercury have gone 2-7 through their first nine games and have emphasized the need to improve defensively and limit momentum-shifting runs by opponents. To make room for Held on the roster, Phoenix waived Kiana Williams on Sunday.
May 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Toronto Tempo guard Lexi Held (12) against the Phoenix Mercury at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Held’s familiarity with the system is a major plus in her return. Unlike a typical midseason addition, she already understands the team’s schemes and expectations after spending last season in Phoenix. That familiarity could help her make an immediate impact as the Mercury look to get back on track.
She averaged 5.3 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game last season while providing valuable depth amid a wave of injuries. While her offensive production was solid, it was her defensive effort that often stood out.
Jun 5, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Lexi Held (1) reacts after scoring against the Golden State Valkyries in the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Her 23 steals were tied for the third-most by a Phoenix rookie off the bench, and she tied Jewell Loyd for the most games (four) with three or more steals by a reserve in 2025. Those numbers highlight the defensive impact Held brought as a rookie and why the Mercury were eager to bring her back.
That defensive presence is exactly what Phoenix needs this season. The Mercury have repeatedly pointed to the importance of getting stops and avoiding extended runs by opposing teams. Held’s ability to pressure ball handlers and create turnovers could help address some of those concerns while providing energy off the bench.
May 30, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Natisha Hiedeman (2) drives on Phoenix Mercury guard Lexi Held (1) in the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Beyond the statistics, the signing gives Phoenix a player who already knows the organization and has proven she can contribute when called upon.
The Mercury open Commissioner’s Cup play against the Minnesota Lynx on Monday, June 1, at 7 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
