When it comes to making a statement in college basketball, few players have done it as boldly as Kitija Laksa. But here's where it gets even more intriguing: her journey from a standout college athlete to a WNBA rookie with the Phoenix Mercury is anything but ordinary. Let’s dive into her story, which is packed with twists, triumphs, and a whole lot of talent.
Kitija Laksa, whose name has become synonymous with resilience and skill, joined the Phoenix Mercury as one of their newest additions. In her debut season, she averaged 5.9 points and 1.2 rebounds across 33 games, even earning a spot in the starting lineup for five of those matchups. And this is the part most people miss: her standout performance against the Chicago Sky, where she dropped 18 points, grabbed an assist, and secured a steal in Phoenix’s 94-89 victory, proved she wasn’t just another rookie—she was a game-changer.
But Laksa’s path to the WNBA wasn’t a straight line. Drafted by the Seattle Storm in the 2020 WNBA Draft, she never actually played for them. After being waived, she signed with the Dallas Wings, only to find herself sitting on the sidelines again. It wasn’t until she ventured overseas and eventually signed with the Mercury that her WNBA career finally took off. Here’s the controversial part: does the WNBA’s draft-and-waive system do enough to nurture young talent, or does it leave players like Laksa in limbo? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Before her professional journey, Laksa was a force to be reckoned with at the University of South Florida. Over four years, she averaged 17.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and an assist per game. Her college debut was nothing short of impressive, scoring 15 points, grabbing a rebound, dishing an assist, and blocking a shot in South Florida’s 74-52 win over Jacksonville. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: her junior year saw her explode for 38 points, including eight 3-pointers, in a blowout win against SMU. It was performances like these that made her a college basketball standout and a future WNBA prospect.
The Mercury’s 2025 rookie class, including Laksa, has been a revelation. Each player brought something unique to the table, and their college experiences laid the foundation for their professional success. Now, they’re not just contributing—they’re thriving. And here’s a thought to ponder: could this rookie class be the key to the Mercury’s future dominance in the WNBA? Share your predictions below.
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