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Phoenix, AZ – Former Duquesne University standout Megan McConnell has officially signed with the Phoenix Mercury, becoming only the third player in school history to earn a spot on an active WNBA roster. The announcement, made on June 3, marks a historic moment for both McConnell and the Dukes’ women’s basketball program.
From Pittsburgh To WNBA Spotlight
Hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, McConnell is no stranger to hard work and perseverance. As an undrafted free agent, she earned her spot on the Mercury’s roster through an impressive showing in training camp — a path once walked by her brother, TJ McConnell, who carved out his NBA career after going undrafted in 2015.
This rare brother-sister pairing adds them to an exclusive club: only three active sibling duos currently play in the WNBA and NBA. The McConnells, both known for their gritty defensive play and leadership, could soon make history by becoming the first to play on the same night in professional basketball.
A Record-Breaking Collegiate Career at Duquesne
McConnell’s name is etched across the Duquesne women’s basketball record books. She concluded her collegiate career as:
- All-time leader in assists (660) and steals (370)
- Second in scoring (1,795 points) and rebounds (1,079)
- Record holder for games played (144), career starts (136), and triple-doubles (4)
- Top 10 in career averages for rebounds (7.5) and assists per game (4.6)
- Sixth in three-pointers made (209)
Despite standing just 5-foot-7, McConnell’s court vision, tenacity, and high basketball IQ made her a dominant force, especially on the defensive end.
Decorated on and off the Court
Throughout her college career, McConnell accumulated numerous honors:
- 2025 Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year
- Two-time A-10 All-Conference First Team and All-Defensive Team honoree
- Two-time finalist for the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year
- Only mid-major player named to the 2025 Naismith Women’s Defensive Player of the Year Watchlist
- 2025 Lilly Women’s College All-Star Game participant
Beyond the hardwood, she excelled academically with three consecutive A-10 All-Academic Team selections and was a three-time CSC Academic All-District® Team honoree.
A Bright Future with the Phoenix Mercury
The Mercury, off to their best start since 2014 with a 5–2 record, are pushing toward Commissioner’s Cup glory. McConnell’s addition bolsters the team’s depth and defensive prowess as they prepare to face the Minnesota Lynx on Tuesday, June 3, at the Target Center — tip-off set for 8:00 p.m. ET.
Who is Megan McConnell in the WNBA?
Megan McConnell is a guard for the Phoenix Mercury, known for her standout career at Duquesne University where she set multiple school records.
Is Megan McConnell related to TJ McConnell?
Yes, Megan is the sister of NBA player TJ McConnell, making them one of the few active brother-sister duos in the NBA and WNBA.
What records did Megan McConnell set at Duquesne?
She holds school records for assists (660), steals (370), and triple-doubles (4), and ranks second in scoring and rebounds.
Was Megan McConnell drafted into the WNBA?
No, Megan joined the Phoenix Mercury as an undrafted free agent and earned her spot through a successful training camp performance.
When is Megan McConnell’s debut game with the Phoenix Mercury?
She is expected to suit up on Tuesday, June 3, when the Mercury face the Minnesota Lynx in a Commissioner’s Cup matchup.