phoenix Mercury Waive Celeste Taylor as WNBA Roster Cuts
PHOENIX – May 15, 2025 – The Phoenix Mercury made headlines by waiving guard Celeste Taylor on May 15, 2025, a move that reflects the tough WNBA roster decisions. The departure of Taylor, a second-year player, surprised many. Coach Tibbetts cited other roster changes for the arduous decision, while Taylor now looks for a new opportunity. For details, keep reading.
Phoenix Mercury Waive Celeste Taylor as WNBA Roster Cuts Loom
The Phoenix Mercury made a surprising roster move, waiving second-year guard Celeste Taylor on May 15, 2025, the deadline for WNBA teams to finalize their rosters at 12 players. This decision comes as teams prepare for the regular season tip-off on friday.
the Cutthroat World of WNBA Roster Decisions
The WNBA is known for its intense competition, especially when teams must reduce their rosters. For players on the fringes, particularly rookies drafted outside the first round, this day can be filled with uncertainty.
Predicting which players will make the final cut is notoriously difficult. Front office decisions are often shrouded in secrecy, making it nearly unfeasible to know which players will stay or go.
Celeste Taylor’s journey and Unexpected Release
Celeste Taylor’s early career has been marked by movement. Drafted by the Indiana Fever in 2024, she also spent time with the Connecticut Sun before landing with the Mercury. With Phoenix, Taylor averaged 20.1 minutes per game and started in four games, making her release unexpected.
Celeste Taylor has been waived by the Mercury.
– Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA)
May 15, 2025
Coach Tibbetts Explains the Decision
Phoenix head coach Nate Tibbetts addressed the media on May 15, explaining the rationale behind Taylor’s release. When you have a competitive camp, you’re gonna have to make some tough decisions. We really like Celeste as a player and as a person. Because of some other roster stuff that has gone on, we had to make a decision to not bring Celeste back,
Tibbetts said, according to Desert Wave Media.
Tibbetts expressed confidence in Taylor’s future: But I really believe Celeste is a W player. I think she’s gonna find a home,she’s about the right stuff. She’s super smart,competitive. So we wish Celeste nothing but the best.
Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts on what led to the decision to cut Celeste Taylor. #WNBA #ValleyTogether pic.twitter.com/H9JoJVh5NQ
– desert Wave Media (@DesertWaveCo)
May 15,2025
FAQ About WNBA Roster Cuts
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Q: Why do WNBA teams have roster cuts?
A: To reduce the roster to the league-mandated limit of 12 players. -
Q: When do WNBA teams finalize their rosters?
A: Typically,just before the start of the regular season. -
Q: What happens to players who are waived?
A: They become free agents and can be signed by other teams.
Looking Ahead
As the WNBA season approaches, teams are making tough choices to finalize their rosters. The Phoenix Mercury’s decision to waive Celeste Taylor highlights the competitive nature of the league and the difficult decisions teams face.
