Nigerian basketball star and D’Tigress regular, Murjanatu Musa has been waived by WNBA franchise Phoenix Mercury, to accommodate veteran DeWanna Bonner ahead of the July 13 contract deadline.
The centre basketball player joined the Mercury earlier this year from French Ligue Féminine side Tarbes Gespe Bigorre, marking her first foray into the WNBA.
Despite being a promising addition, her debut season was cut short due to roster constraints and injury setbacks.
Squad Reshuffle Forces Musa’ Exit
With the Mercury reaching the WNBA’s 12-player roster limit, the franchise had to make space for Bonner, a five-time All-Star and former WNBA champion returning to Phoenix.
According to the WNBA transactions page, Musa was officially. She was one of six players signed on unprotected contracts, making her eligible for release without financial penalty before the July 13 roster lock-in.
Modest Debut Season for Musa
Murjanatu Musa made her WNBA debut on May 22 in the Mercury’s tight 89–86 win over the Los Angeles Sparks, going on to appear in 12 games during the 2025 season.
She averaged:
Primarily used as a rotational player by head coach Nate Tibbetts, the 25-year-old minutes were limited, especially following a right ankle injury that ruled her out of the Mercury’s last three games.
Though she was tipped for a possible return in Monday’s blowout win over the Dallas Wings, the Nigerian centre did not feature, further fueling speculation about her future with the team.
A Potential Second Chance?
While her stint in Phoenix has ended, Musa’s WNBA journey might not be over. A multiple-time AfroBasket champion with Nigeria’s D’Tigress, Musa has impressed on the international stage with her defensive skills, rebounding strength, and ability to create opportunities.
Her profile could still draw interest from other WNBA franchises in need of a reliable centre.
D’Tigress Watch
Murjanatu Musa’s exit from the Mercury comes ahead of Nigeria’s build-up to the FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments and AfroBasket 2025 preparations, where she is expected to play a vital role in the D’Tigress squad.
Her next move could be crucial in maintaining her form and fitness ahead of national team duties.
