PHOENIX – Early on into the 2026 WNBA season, the Phoenix Mercury may already have discovered something that changes the trajectory of their year, which is newcomer and rookie guard Jovana Nogic.
Jovana Nogic is shining early for the Phoenix Mercury:
Everyone expected stars like Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas to carry the offensive load; that part was never in doubt for the Mercury. Copper attacks defenses with relentless downhill pressure, while Thomas controls tempo as one of the smartest all-around players in basketball. What nobody expected was rookie guard Jovana Nogic erupting for 27 points against the Chicago Sky in their last outing and looking completely unfazed doing it.
Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts talks with guard Jovana Nogic (29) during a game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on May 15, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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That performance matters because it wasn’t built on lucky shooting. Nogic displayed advanced decision-making, off-ball movement, and composure that veteran guards spend years developing. The Mercury generated cleaner spacing with her on the floor, and defenses suddenly had to choose between helping on Copper drives or staying attached to Nogic on the perimeter. That is the kind of offensive pressure championship teams create.
May 15, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) drives on Chicago Sky guard Gabriela Jaquez (11) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Now comes a real test against the Toronto Tempo. One breakout game creates headlines, but doing it twice creates belief. Mercury fans are already whispering about Rookie of the Year potential, and while it is early, the conversation is understandable. The psychological impact of a rookie producing immediately cannot be overstated. The energy around Phoenix suddenly feels similar to last season, but different with new pieces.
Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) makes a three pointer against the Sky during a game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on May 15, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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If Nogic proves Chicago was not a one-night explosion, the Mercury could become one of the WNBA’s must-watch teams this season. Not just because of their stars, but because they may have found a fearless scorer capable of changing everything.
