PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury’s star power draws most of the attention around the league, but one of their newest additions is becoming a meaningful part of the equation — rookie Noémie Brochant.
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May 24, 2026; College Park, Georgia, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Noemie Brochant (1) dribbles the ball down the court against Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) during the fourth quarter at Gateway Center Arena at College Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
The French forward has carved out a larger role in Phoenix’s rotation over the last few weeks, earning starts and looking increasingly comfortable as the Mercury continue to establish their identity.
The 26-year-old arrived in the Valley after a successful stint with Charleville-Mézières in France’s top women’s league, where she averaged 11.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.0 steals across 23 games. She ranked second in 3-pointers made per game (2.3), fifth in 3-point percentage (43.5%) and fifth in steals per game.
Jun 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Noemie Brochant (1) protects the ball from Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Brochant made the opening-day roster after an impressive training camp and has steadily earned more responsibility as the season has progressed. Known as a reliable perimeter shooter and active defender, she is averaging 5.5 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists while shooting 43.5% from the field.
The rookie is tied for fifth most steals in her class (10) and fourth in blocks (6).
The forward’s recent stretch has been particularly encouraging. Over her last four games, Brochant has averaged 9.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists, including 11 points against Portland, 11 more against Minnesota and a 10-point, six-assist performance against Golden State.
“I just love [Brochant’s] pace of play. She plays extremely fast, and the other great thing is our veterans believe in her.”
Mercury HC Nate Tibbetts on Noemie Brochant’s development this year. She scored 10 points with six assists vs. Golden State Tuesday.
🎥: Phoenix Mercury pic.twitter.com/PSJXJbsoBm— Wendy Lopez (@wlopezde) June 10, 2026
“She’s getting great minutes,” head coach Nate Tibbetts said about her growth so far this year. “And that’s what it’s about when you’re a young player, finding out what you can and can’t do in this league… I just love her pace of play. She plays extremely fast, and the other great thing is our veterans believe in her.”
That belief has become increasingly evident on the floor.
Alyssa Thomas remains one of the league’s most effective facilitators, while Kahleah Copper’s scoring ability demands defensive attention. Brochant has complemented both, knocking down open shots and making smart decisions when defenses collapse.
Jun 9, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Noemie Brochant (1) shoots a three-point basket against Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams (1) during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-Imagn Images
“I think most of it is just the confidence,” Thomas said. “[Brochant’s] been great offensively and defensively for us. Most of the time we’re yelling at her to shoot, so she’s just going to continue to get better. We’re super proud of her, and we know she has so much to give.”
As Phoenix continues to find its rhythm, Brochant’s emergence has become one of the season’s most encouraging developments. It’s exactly the type of contribution the Mercury hoped to uncover when they looked internationally for roster depth and versatility.
If her recent play is any indication, Brochant may be more than a pleasant surprise — she could become an important piece of what Phoenix is building.
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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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