Phoenix Mercury Rookie Lexi Held Shows Promise in Inaugural WNBA Season

Phoenix Mercury guard Lexi Held, who went undrafted in 2022, completed a successful rookie season averaging 5.3 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game.

Held signed with the Mercury after playing professionally overseas, joining fellow undrafted rookie Kathryn Westbeld on the team. Throughout the 2025 season, the DePaul University graduate demonstrated her scoring ability, reaching double figures in six games, including a career-high 24 points against the Golden State Valkyries on September 11th. She also contributed defensively with 25 steals and five blocks. The Mercury’s ability to identify and develop undrafted talent is becoming a key component of their roster construction.

In total, Held scored 170 points, secured 34 rebounds (23 defensive, 11 offensive), and recorded 35 assists. She also proved to be a reliable three-point shooter, connecting on 28 shots from beyond the arc. Her performance, alongside rookies Monique Akoa Makani and Kitija Laksa, helped propel the Mercury to a near championship run. You can find more information about the WNBA and its players on the league’s official website.

The Mercury’s front office anticipates that Held and other young players will take on expanded roles next season as the team aims to return to the WNBA Finals. The team expects continued growth from its rookies as they gain experience and familiarity with the league. Read our full season review of the Phoenix Mercury here.