Thomas was designated as the team’s franchise player earlier this month, meaning the only way she could sign with another team was via trade. The move can't become official until Feb. 1.

It’s the end of an era for Connecticut Sun forward Alyssa Thomas. Per ESPN ‘s Alexa Philippou, the Phoenix Mercury are reportedly acquiring the 11-year veteran via the second blockbuster WNBA trade in less than a week.

Thomas, who finished top five in MVP voting the last three seasons, has spent her entire career in Connecticut

The WNBA offseason went from 0 to 100 quickly with two blockbuster trades near the start of free agency. This time, the Phoenix Mercury have gotten involved in the action by acquiring one of the league's best talents.

One of the WNBA’s best players is on the move, as Alyssa Thomas is headed to Phoenix in the second big trade of the week.

The Phoenix Mercury are finalizing a trade to acquire five-time All-Star forward Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun, sources told ESPN on Tuesday.

Phoenix isn't quite sure what it will look like next season, but it will now build around Thomas after the loss of Griner. The Sun, meanwhile, appear set to embark on a difficult rebuild.

The Phoenix Mercury are finalizing a deal to acquire Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun. That's according to a person familiar with the deal who spoke to The Associated Press Tuesday night on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss it publicly.

Connecticut Sun forward Alyssa Thomas (25) handles the ball against Minnesota Lynx forward Alanna Smith (8) during the second half of Game 1 of a WNBA basketball semifinals series Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs) AP Photo/Stacy Bengs

Alyssa Thomas is headed to the desert as a deal between the Connecticut Sun and Phoenix Mercury is being finalized.

The Sun gave Thomas the core designation earlier in January, meaning the only way for Thomas to be moved was via a sign-and-trade