Why Jovana Nogić is stepping away from the Mercury and WNBA

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May 21, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) drives on the Los Angeles Sparks in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

PHOENIX — When news broke that the Phoenix Mercury would be suspending guard Jovana Nogić’s contract, many were left wondering what happened.

Now, it appears the suspension is tied to her continuing her career overseas in Russia.

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Jun 5, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) prepares to shoot during the first half against the Portland Fire at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

The Serbian guard, who joined the club as an undrafted rookie, last played in a Phoenix uniform on June 17. Days later, on June 20, the team announced the suspension. When asked by the media about Nogić no longer being with the team, head coach Nate Tibbetts said it was for personal reasons.

Sport Klub’s Marko Vlahović confirmed that Nogić will take the summer off and continue her career in Russia, where she is expected to lead the Serbian national team in the qualifiers for EuroBasket 2027. She will be able to return to Phoenix for the 2027 season.

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Jun 5, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) is introduced before the game against the Portland Fire at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

The decision has already created a bit of a roster shakeup, leaving the Mercury down a guard who provided valuable minutes this season.

Nogić made her WNBA debut against the reigning champions, the Las Vegas Aces, where she quickly earned attention for her composure during a 19-point performance while shooting 4-for-5 from beyond the arc. She later scored a career-high 27 points against the Chicago Sky on May 15.

Nogić averaged 10.4 points per game while shooting 42% from the field and 42.1% from 3-point range.

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May 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Jovana Nogic (29) against the Toronto Tempo in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

With the rookie guard out, the Mercury have leaned more into their depth in recent games, including re-signing guard Shay Ciezki to a developmental contract and still having one roster spot open despite Nogić remaining on the salary cap.

Phoenix’s continuity has taken another hit with the suspension, as the team has already battled through a season filled with injuries and players away on prior commitments. The Mercury have been tested, but they have responded with improved play, winning three of their last four games.

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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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