Haley Jones has signed a hardship contract with the Phoenix Mercury, marking her return to the WNBA after being released by the Atlanta Dream before the 2025 season. This move comes as the Mercury face significant roster challenges due to injuries, including absences of key players Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas. The signing allows Jones to continue competing this season while the Mercury aim to rebuild their depth.
UCLA standout Lauren Betts expressed her support for Jones on Instagram, responding with a single word reaction. Betts reposted the announcement by PostHer Hoops regarding the Mercury’s decision to add Jones, captioning her story simply with “PERIOD,” signaling strong encouragement.
Overview of Haley Jones’ Professional and International Career
Jones spent her first two WNBA seasons with the Atlanta Dream after being selected sixth overall in the 2023 WNBA Draft. Over 80 games with Atlanta, she posted averages of 3.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Despite this steady performance, the Dream unexpectedly released her ahead of the new season.
In addition to her WNBA experience, Jones played internationally for Geelong United in Australia’s Women’s National Basketball League during the latest season. This global experience adds to her versatile playing resume and readiness to contribute to the Mercury’s lineup this year.
Highlighting Haley Jones’ Impactful College Career at Stanford
Jones’ basketball journey gained national attention during her four years at Stanford University, where she developed into one of the top collegiate athletes in the country. Beginning in the 2019-20 season, her freshman year was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic after appearing in 18 games and averaging 11.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists.
The following season, Jones elevated her play, averaging 13.2 points and 7.4 rebounds across 32 games. She was instrumental in Stanford’s NCAA Tournament championship run, scoring a game-high 17 points in a tightly contested 54-53 victory over Arizona in the national title game.
During her junior year, Jones’ performance earned her the Pac-12 Co-Player of the Year honors in 2022, underscoring her leadership on the court. Her senior season saw career-best statistics in scoring, rebounding, assists, and steals, although Stanford fell short in the NCAA Tournament’s second round with a loss to Ole Miss.
The Importance of This Next Step for Haley Jones and the Phoenix Mercury
Jones’ return to the WNBA through a hardship contract with the Phoenix Mercury not only provides her a crucial opportunity to showcase her skills but also offers the Mercury vital reinforcements during a challenging injury period. With key contributors sidelined, Jones’ experience at both professional and international levels will be valuable as the team works to regain its competitive form.
Furthermore, the encouragement from fellow players like Lauren Betts highlights the respect and anticipation surrounding Jones’ next chapter. Her resilience and talent suggest she could make a significant impact if given the chance to contribute consistently in Phoenix.