Have you ever wondered about the stories behind jersey numbers in sports? The Phoenix Mercury’s No. 16 has a truly unique tale involving a player who defied expectations to make her mark. Megan McConnell’s journey is one of perseverance, family, and a number that holds a special place in team history. What makes a jersey number iconic to you?
In the vibrant tapestry of professional basketball, certain jersey numbers become synonymous with the players who wear them, yet the No. 16 for the Phoenix Mercury tells a singular and intriguing story of an emerging talent. Unlike many other numbers that have graced multiple athletes throughout the franchise’s rich history, No. 16 holds a unique distinction, making its brief, yet memorable, appearance with a player whose journey is as compelling as the number itself.
The personal connection between an athlete and their chosen jersey number is a common thread in sports, often reflecting deep-seated inspirations or significant life events. Whether it’s an homage to a childhood idol, a representation of family ties, or simply a number that resonates on a personal level, these digits become an extension of a player’s identity on the court. For many Phoenix Mercury players, their numbers have carried such personal narratives, weaving into the broader lore of the team.
Prior articles have delved into the shared histories of numbers like No. 14 and No. 15 within the Mercury roster, showcasing how various players have donned these digits, creating a lineage of talent. However, the narrative surrounding No. 16 stands apart. This particular number, usually a placeholder in the vast numerical landscape of a sports team, has had an exceptionally exclusive and brief tenure, setting it apart from its frequently recycled counterparts.
The unique chapter of No. 16 begins with Megan McConnell, a player whose path to the WNBA was anything but conventional. Going undrafted in the highly competitive 2025 WNBA Draft, McConnell’s tenacity caught the eye of the Phoenix Mercury. Despite being initially waived after receiving a training camp invite, her determination earned her a recall, underscoring the team’s belief in her potential and adding an unexpected twist to her rookie season.
McConnell seized her opportunities, participating in both of the Mercury’s preseason contests against formidable opponents like the Las Vegas Aces and the Golden State Valkyries. Her performance in these preliminary games paved the way for her official WNBA debut, a significant milestone for any aspiring professional athlete. Her journey encapsulates the grind and perseverance often required to make it to the highest level of women’s basketball.
Her debut against the Minnesota Lynx was marked by a poignant moment that resonated beyond the basketball court: a touching jersey exchange with her brother, T.J. McConnell. While Megan wore his jersey for her WNBA premiere, he reciprocated, donning her No. 16 as his Indiana Pacers prepared for a critical NBA Finals matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This heartwarming display of sibling support highlighted the deep familial bonds that often underpin athletic careers.
During her impactful 13 minutes on the court, Megan McConnell demonstrated her versatility, contributing three points, three assists, a rebound, and a steal. Tragically, her debut also saw her suffer a knee injury, leading to her subsequent waiving by the team. This unfortunate turn of events cemented her status as the singular player to date to wear No. 16 for the Phoenix Mercury, leaving a distinct, albeit short-lived, mark on the franchise’s history.
While Megan McConnell currently stands as the sole bearer of the Phoenix Mercury’s No. 16, her unique story ensures that the number carries a special significance. The question remains whether another player will one day inherit this number, forging their own legacy and perhaps adding new chapters to the curious history of No. 16 within the storied franchise of the Phoenix Mercury and the broader WNBA landscape.
