Mercury’s Valériane Ayayi finds plenty to like since arriving to Phoenix

The care goes beyond the court as well, as the forward also pointed to the people in the organization as another aspect that has stood out to her. It is not the first time a Mercury player has credited the organization for its care and home-like feel, but Ayayi’s comments reinforce that same notion of why the Valley has felt welcoming for players.

“As I already said, I love the people here,” she said. “That’s also a big aspect for me because I’m [a] people person. I’m really into people and the care they have for me; the care for my family is huge for me.”

For a player coming from overseas, trust has already started with the club through early conversations and the eventual signing. But how that trust continues to be built is what shapes the transition into the league and how the team helps along the way.

Ayayi’s comfort level, not just professionally but personally, underscores where Phoenix stands as an organization beyond on-court results. Its willingness to support not only players but also their families has helped ease her transition from France to Arizona.

Still, the day-to-day environment continues to amaze her since her arrival in the Valley.

“But facilities, like as a material thing, are something that I really can feel,” Ayayi said. “I keep sharing [with] my other friends in the [WNBA] and my family in France, and I’m like, ‘You guys have to see this — like this is just huge.'”

In Phoenix, Ayayi says she is already seeing what makes the Mercury more than just a team — it is a place that quickly starts to feel like home.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

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