Kalani Brown, the former center for the Phoenix Mercury, has officially made her return to the WNBA by signing with the Las Vegas Aces. This move comes after a summer filled with anticipation for another opportunity in the league, particularly after her previous season ended in disappointment against the Aces in the Finals.
After agreeing to a contract buyout with the Mercury during the preseason, Brown's signing with the Aces was prompted by the team’s need for depth following NaLyssa Smith's season-ending injury. This situation has created a unique narrative for Brown, as she joins the very team that halted her previous championship aspirations.
Brown's journey in the WNBA has been marked by significant transitions. She spent the 2025 season with the Mercury, having been acquired from the Dallas Wings in a complex four-team trade that also brought notable players like Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas to Phoenix. During her time with the Mercury, Brown demonstrated her potential, averaging 5.1 points and 4.0 rebounds across 29 games, while showcasing impressive shooting efficiency at 61.5% from the field.
However, as the Mercury geared up for the playoffs, Brown found her playing time diminished due to a tighter rotation. It wasn't until Sabally's injury during the Finals that she received a boost in minutes, allowing her to contribute more significantly to the team’s efforts. Unfortunately for Brown and the Mercury, they were swept by the Aces, which now adds an intriguing layer to her return to Las Vegas.
In her first comments since joining the Aces, Brown expressed her eagerness to embrace her new role. "Since I’ve been here, I’ve been told I was chosen and I was chosen for a reason," she shared with ESPN Las Vegas. Brown emphasized her focus on being herself and fulfilling the expectations set by head coach Becky Hammon. This confidence is crucial as she transitions into a system that she believes will better suit her style of play compared to her time in Phoenix.
Reflecting on her previous experiences, Brown noted the differences in play styles between the two teams. "I think in Phoenix, it was a different level of play, a different style of play for me. And I did struggle in the beginning. I got the hang of it, but I think here I’m a little bit more comfortable," she explained. This newfound comfort could be pivotal as she aims to integrate into the Aces' high-caliber roster, which is filled with All-Star talent and is once again a strong contender for the championship.
As she prepares to contribute to the Aces, Brown is focused on adapting to the team's pace and style. "I’m just trying to get up to speed with the team, getting up to their speed of play, their style of play," she said. With her sights set on helping the Aces achieve their championship goals, Brown is ready to tackle the challenges ahead, drawing on her experiences and the lessons learned from her time in Phoenix.
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