The Phoenix Mercury just added a standout wing

It’s been an up-and-down couple of years for Maddy Westbeld, who began her WNBA career in the Chicago Sky’s rotation last year but has seen more limited opportunities this season as a developmental contract player.

Now, Westbeld has signed a rest-of-season contract with the Phoenix Mercury, meaning that a greater on-court role could be looming.

Westbeld was drafted 16th overall by the Sky in 2025 and averaged 13.6 minutes per game in her rookie season in Chicago. She averaged 4.1 points and 2.4 rebounds per game, while shooting 39.5% from beyond the arc. But this year, Westbeld was waived and later signed to a developmental contract. After appearing in 26 games in her rookie season, she played just 3 games for the Sky in 2026.

Before her pro career, Westbeld was a standout at Notre Dame, having averaged 12.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.3 steals across five seasons, while shooting 34.9% from beyond the arc. The 6’3 forward was a three-time member of the All-ACC team.

Now, Westbeld will see an increased opportunity playing on a rest-of-season contract with the Phoenix Mercury. The Mercury, who are 13-23, have had a difficult season on the heels of a finals appearance.

Phoenix traded Monique Akoa Makani and future draft compensation for Kelsey Plum ahead of the midseason trade deadline, but despite the upgrade at guard, they’re unlikely to make the playoffs. The Mercury are currently 7 games behind the Dallas Wings, who currently hold onto the 8th and final playoff spot.

As such, the rest of the season will likely center around player development — of which Westbeld could be a major part — and convincing Plum to re-sign with the team in free agency.