WNBA rookie Jovana Nogic left the Phoenix Mercury in late June due to personal reasons.

Controversy has been louder than the results for the Phoenix Mercury. The 2025 finalists had an abysmal start to the 2026 season, losing 13 of the first 18 games.

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury have officially announced rookie Jovana Nogić will not return for the remainder of the 2026 season following the suspension of her contract. Nogić also addressed the decision in a statement released alongside the team’s announcement.

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.

The Phoenix Mercury temporarily suspended a player's contract last week due to personal reasons.

She was one of the biggest surprises in the league.

A temporary contract suspension is often used for players who are out for personal reasons or playing overseas.

These undrafted rookies have made immediate impacts on the court.

Mercury undrafted rookie Jovana Nogić earned rave reviews from Alyssa Thomas and Nate Tibbetts after her hot start.