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Phoenix Mercury grant Kalani Brown buyout as roster shift continues
TL;DR
The Phoenix Mercury have agreed to a buyout with center Kalani Brown, making her an unrestricted free agent ahead of the 2026 season. Brown's departure follows her one-year stint with the team after being acquired in a four-team trade.
Key points
- Phoenix Mercury and Kalani Brown agree to a contract buyout
- Brown becomes an unrestricted free agent
- She played one season with the Mercury after a trade
Phoenix MercuryKalani BrownDallas Wings
Sep 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury center Kalani Brown (21) against the Los Angeles Sparks during a WNBA game at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury and center Kalani Brown are parting ways, agreeing to a contract buyout ahead of the 2026 season.
According to ICYMIwithKW on X, the former first-round pick will become an unrestricted free agent as she ends her one-year tenure in the Valley. She was acquired from the Dallas Wings before the 2025 season in a four-team trade to add size and defense to the Mercury.
The move gives Phoenix immediate roster flexibility, as the team has been balancing frontcourt depth with a need for mobility and spacing as the league trends toward a faster style of play. Moving on from Brown gives the Mercury a chance to add a player who better fits that style after being unable to move her for draft picks.
Q&A
What led to Kalani Brown's buyout with the Phoenix Mercury?
Kalani Brown's buyout was part of a roster shift as the Mercury prepare for the 2026 season.
How long did Kalani Brown play for the Phoenix Mercury?
Kalani Brown played for the Phoenix Mercury for one season after being acquired before the 2025 season.
What will happen to Kalani Brown after the buyout?
After the buyout, Kalani Brown will become an unrestricted free agent.
