Full Breakdown
Phoenix Mercury Rookie Jovana Nogic to Miss Remainder of 2026 Season
6/30/2026, 4:16:36 AM
Season-Ending Absence: Who, What, When, and Why
Phoenix Mercury announced on Monday that rookie guard Jovana Nogic will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season. The team cited “personal reasons” for the decision. Nogic’s last game was on June 17, and her contract was temporarily suspended a few days later. The organization emphasized player well-being as a priority.
Background and Early Production
Nogic, a 28-year-old Serbian guard, joined Phoenix as an undrafted free agent after playing at Providence College (2015-2019) and in European leagues. In 16 games she averaged 10.4 points and shot 42.1 % from three-point range, ranking third on the team in scoring. Notable outings included a 19-point first half in her debut versus the Las Vegas Aces and a 27-point effort against the Chicago Sky.
Organizational Responses
General manager Nick U’Ren said the franchise’s top priority is player health, while head coach Nate Tibbetts confirmed the absence was for “personal reasons.” Agent Boris Lelchitski of Sports International Group denied a Sport Klub report that Nogic left to prepare for UMMC Ekaterinburg and Serbian national-team duties, stating the goal is for her to return for the 2027 season. The Mercury thanked Nogic for her “hard work, commitment and joy.”
Conflicting Reports on Reason for Departure
Sport Klub’s Marko Vlahovic initially reported that Nogic would take the summer off to focus on overseas commitments with UMMC Ekaterinburg and the Serbian national team. Lelchitski’s subsequent denial creates a direct conflict, and the team has not disclosed further details about the “personal reasons” cited. No information has been released regarding a timeline for a replacement signing.
Impact on Mercury Roster and Season Outlook
Nogic’s departure removes a primary perimeter shooter from a Mercury roster that already faces injuries to center Natasha Mack (bone bruise, 2-4-week outlook), guard Monique Akoa Makani (hamstring) and forward Sami Whitcomb (knee arthroscopy). The team, sitting at 7-13 after a surprise 2025 Finals run, must find immediate scoring alternatives to improve its performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This was not an easy decision, I love Phoenix, our organization and our fans,” — Jovana Nogic, Phoenix Mercury rookie guard
- “The Mercury community made me feel welcome from day one, and I look forward to returning to Phoenix next season.” — Jovana Nogic
- “The well-being of our players is our top priority,” — Nick U’Ren, General Manager, Phoenix Mercury
- “Lelchitski told ESPN the goal is for Nogic to return to Phoenix in 2027.” — Boris Lelchitski, Agent, Sports International Group
Outlook for 2027
The Mercury plans to have Nogic back for the 2027 season, pending her personal circumstances and health. The franchise will monitor Mack’s recovery and consider roster moves during the off-season.
