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WNBA Rookie Jovana Nogic Won't Return This Season Amid Temporary Suspension
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- WNBA Rookie Jovana Nogic Won't Return This Season Amid Temporary Suspension
Phoenix Mercury rookie Jovana Nogic had an impressive start to her WNBA career in the 2026 season. In the team's season-opening win against the Las Vegas Aces , she dropped 19 points, four assists and two steals.
Less than a week after that, the Serbian guard exploded for 27 points against the Chicago Sky , making history with the most points scored in a single game by an undrafted rookie.
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In 16 games with Phoenix, Nogic averaged 10.4 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists.
However, Nogic has not been with the Mercury for a week now. Phoenix temporarily suspended her contract on June 20, with head coach Nate Tibbetts saying she was away from the team due to "personal reasons."
A temporary contract suspension in the WNBA is often used for players who are out for personal reasons or who are playing overseas. By putting a player under this designation, her salary stays on the cap but she doesn't count toward the roster spot until she returns.
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Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts talks with guard Jovana Nogic (29) during a game.USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
The initial expectation was that Nogic would still return this 2026 season. Nonetheless, that is apparently not the case.
According to the Serbian Times , Nogic won't be returning to the Mercury until next campaign. She has reportedly opted to rest this summer to prepare for her upcoming season with Russian club UMMC Yekaterinburg.
"According to Sport Klub, Nogic requested and received a temporary freeze of her contract with Phoenix in order to rest this summer and continue her career in Russia during a season in which she is expected to lead the Serbian national team in the qualifiers for EuroBasket 2027," the Serbian Times report stated.
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"This means that her WNBA career has effectively been put on hold until next season. Her salary will continue to count against the club's salary cap, while her roster spot will remain reserved for her upon her return. The basketball calendar works in her favor in that regard."
It's certainly a disappointing turn for the Mercury, especially considering how well Nogic played when she was available.
The good news for the Mercury is that they remain deep at the guard position with Kahleah Copper , Lexi Held and Sami Whitcomb leading the way. Forward Alyssa Thomas also remains one of the best playmakers in the league.
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For what it's worth, Phoenix recently signed guard Shay Ciezki to a player development contract, giving them additional guard depth with Nogic out.
Related: WNBA to Punish DeWanna Bonner After Phoenix Mercury Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
