PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury have brought guard Kiana Williams back into the organization, signing her to a developmental contract just days after waiving her.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Phoenix Mercury have signed guard Kiana Williams to a developmental contract. In a corresponding move, the team has released guard Shay Ciezki from her developmental contract. pic.twitter.com/wguUPTJCcr
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) June 4, 2026
The move allows Phoenix to keep a player who is already familiar with coach Nate Tibbetts’ system and coaching staff while maintaining roster flexibility. In a corresponding move, guard Shay Ciezki was released from her developmental contract.
Williams has spent parts of the past two seasons with the Mercury and has established herself as a dependable depth option in the backcourt.
May 10, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kiana Williams (23) before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The guard appeared in eight games for Phoenix before being waived, averaging 4.8 points in 13.1 minutes per game while shooting 36.4% from the field.
Those numbers came in a limited sample, but they reflect the type of production Williams can provide in a reserve role. Her ability to space the floor and contribute without an extended adjustment period offers added value for a veteran team with postseason aspirations.
May 24, 2026; College Park, Georgia, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kiana Williams (23) dribbles the ball down the court against the Atlanta Dream during the third quarter at Gateway Center Arena at College Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
The signing also helps preserve organizational depth. Players on developmental contracts can be activated for up to 12 games during the season, giving teams flexibility when navigating injuries, scheduling demands and roster needs.
For Phoenix, the move keeps a familiar option in-house. Williams already understands the Mercury’s system and personnel, allowing her to step into a rotation role with minimal adjustment if needed over the course of the season.
May 24, 2026; College Park, Georgia, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kiana Williams (23) looks for a play against Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) during the fourth quarter at Gateway Center Arena at College Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
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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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