The Phoenix Mercury waived guard Sevgiu Uzun on Monday, the team announced. Uzun, 27, made her WNBA debut in 2024 with the Dallas Wings. Phoenix acquired Uzun as part of the Satou Sabally trade this past offseason.
It was worth noting that Uzun would have been away from the team for a few weeks anyway even if she had not been waived. According to Desert Wave Media, the guard reported to the Turkish national team and will play for the country in EuroBasket, which ends on June 29.
After averaging 4.4 points, 3.0 assists and 1.6 rebounds per outing in Dallas during her rookie season, Uzun has recorded per game averages of 1.6 points, 2.0 assists and 0.9 rebounds in Phoenix. However, she received 20.5 minutes per outing with Dallas and also started nine of the 40 games she appeared in. In her seven games played with the Mercury, Uzun did not start any contest and averaged just 14.6 minutes per game.
Uzun is a talented guard who could draw interest from a WNBA team once she finishes EuroBasket. She is capable of starting, but could also lead any team's second unit as a backup guard.
Injuries are an unfortunate part of sports, and one has to imagine that a number of teams around the league will be looking to add guard depth in July as a result. Uzun's experience and potential could prove to be intriguing. She is a player who may even emerge as a long-term option if given an opportunity.
Mercury's 2025 season
The Mercury's expectations heading into the 2025 season were uncertain. Sure, they acquired All-Star players in Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas during the offseason. However, Brittney Griner left in free agency and Diana Taurasi announced her retirement.
Nevertheless, Phoenix has started the new campaign strong, holding a 5-2 record. The Mercury currently trail only the 7-0 Minnesota Lynx in the Western Conference standings.
Phoenix appears to be a legitimate postseason contender. It is still early in the season, of course, but the Mercury are unquestionably playing well right now.
The Mercury will look to maintain their momentum on Tuesday night. Doing so will be an immense challenge, though, as Phoenix will play Minnesota on the road. A victory would be a statement win to say the least. The Mercury and Lynx will play their highly-anticipated contest on Tuesday night at 8 PM EST in Minnesota.