Alyssa Thomas is a force to be reckoned with, and her journey to becoming a triple-double machine is nothing short of remarkable. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: her dominance didn't start in the WNBA—it began in college, where she laid the foundation for her future stardom. Let’s dive into how this Phoenix Mercury standout became a game-changer both in the pros and during her collegiate years.
The Phoenix Mercury made a game-changing move by acquiring Alyssa Thomas before the 2025 season, and she delivered in ways that left fans and critics alike in awe. That year, she nearly averaged a triple-double, putting up 15.4 points, 9.2 assists, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Her playmaking abilities were off the charts, earning her the WNBA’s Peak Performer in assists—a title no Mercury player had claimed since the legendary Diana Taurasi. And this is the part most people miss: Thomas’s ability to impact the game in so many ways wasn’t just a fluke; it was a skill she honed long before she stepped onto the WNBA court.
In her first season with Phoenix, Thomas recorded an astonishing eight triple-doubles, setting a new league record. To put that in perspective, she had six triple-doubles in 2023, the same year she finished as the runner-up in the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race. Despite leading in first-place votes with 23, she narrowly lost to Breanna Stewart, who secured 446 points to Thomas’s 439. It was a nail-biter of a race, and while Stewart took home the trophy, Thomas proved she was a force to be reckoned with.
But let’s rewind to where it all began: her college years at Maryland. In 2013, during the ACC Tournament, Thomas made history by becoming the first player ever to record a triple-double in the tournament. Her 32 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists propelled Maryland to a thrilling 92-81 overtime victory over Wake Forest. Here’s the controversial part: while many celebrate Stewart’s MVP win, Thomas’s consistent ability to rack up triple-doubles—both in college and the pros—raises the question: Is she the most underrated player in women’s basketball? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Thomas’s college teammates also shone in that historic game. Tianna Hawkins posted a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Chloe Pavlech added 14 points and Katie Rutan chipped in with 13 points, four rebounds, and two blocks. But it was Thomas’s all-around brilliance that stole the show, proving she could dominate in every facet of the game.
Fast forward to her WNBA career, and Thomas’s impact is undeniable. Her ability to stuff the stat sheet not only makes her a fan favorite but also a key reason the Mercury reached the WNBA Finals. Now a free agent, her potential return to Phoenix could mean another shot at championship glory. But here’s the real question: Can any team afford to let a player of her caliber slip away?
Thomas’s story is a testament to consistency, versatility, and sheer talent. From her record-breaking college days to her WNBA stardom, she’s proven time and again that she’s a game-changer. So, what’s next for Alyssa Thomas? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: wherever she goes, greatness follows. Don’t miss out on more of her incredible journey—follow us on X for exclusive updates and insights right here: https://x.com/MercuryOnSI!
