Veteran Alyssa Thomas continues to write her legacy in the WNBA. The Phoenix Mercury forward broke the single-season assist record previously held by Caitlin Clark during Saturday’s matchup against the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena.
Thomas entered the game needing just a few assists to set a new league standard, and she didn’t take long to achieve it. By halftime, she had already tallied nine points, eight assists, and five rebounds, shooting 4-of-11 from the field-numbers that helped the Mercury take a 50-47 lead into the break 2.
Alyssa Thomas, assist leader
At 33 years old, Thomas is having an absolutely dominant season. She’s averaging 15.9 points, 9.2 assists, 9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game across 36 appearances, with an impressive 53.9% shooting from the field 1. These stats solidify her not only as one of the best passers in the WNBA but also as a key piece in Phoenix’s success.
The previous record, held by Caitlin Clark, was set in 2024 during her spectacular rookie year with the Indiana Fever: 337 assists in 40 games. That mark was considered a benchmark for elite guard play-until Thomas’s consistency raised the bar even higher in 2025. She broke the record with her sixth assist of the game, a pass to Kathryn Westbeld for a corner three-pointer.
Phoenix’s peak moment
Thomas’s achievement comes as the Phoenix Mercury are hitting their stride. The team entered the game against Connecticut riding a six-game winning streak and holding a 27-14 record, placing them among the league’s top franchises. In contrast, the Sun are enduring a tough season with a 10-31 record.
After this game, Phoenix returns home to face the Los Angeles Sparks (19-22) in a nationally televised matchup on NBA TV, before closing the regular season with a visit to the Washington Mystics. Every game is crucial to maintain momentum heading into the playoffs.
Alyssa Thomas makes WNBA history
Throughout her career, Alyssa Thomas has proven to be much more than a great passer. Her ability to score, rebound, and lead on both ends of the court makes her one of the most complete players in WNBA history. Now, by surpassing Clark’s record, she reinforces her legacy as Phoenix’s offensive engine and a symbol of consistency and versatility.
This new record is not just a personal milestone-it’s also a reflection of the Mercury’s push toward the postseason. At 33, Thomas continues to show that her impact remains vital at the highest level of women’s basketball.
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