Helena Pueyo Rescinds Phoenix Mercury Contract Due to Injury

Helena Pueyo has rescinded her contract with the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA to prioritize recovery from a foot injury, according to an interview with IB3 television. The former Casademont Zaragoza player is currently in Mallorca seeking treatment after complications following the EuroLeague Final Six.

Why did Helena Pueyo leave the Phoenix Mercury?

Pueyo’s decision stems from a persistent foot injury that intensified during the final stages of her previous season. According to the player, she suffered a traumatism during a quarter-final match against Landes in the EuroLeague Final Six.

She attempted to play through the pain during the semi-finals against Galatasaray, which she stated intensified the injury and caused her to miss nearly the rest of the season. This physical setback ultimately led her to renounce her opportunity to play in the WNBA this year.

“When your body asks you to stop, it’s better to stop, recover well mentally and physically to return better,” Pueyo told IB3.

Did You Know? Helena Pueyo suffered a foot traumatism during a quarter-final match against Landes in the EuroLeague Final Six before attempting to play in the semi-finals against Galatasaray.

What is the current status of Helena Pueyo’s recovery?

The exterior is currently based in Mallorca, where she is exploring various treatments to address the injury. She noted that the cumulative load from the current and previous seasons has made the diagnosis complicated.

Patient Maria McConnell Discusses Her Recovery from a Severe Back Injury

Pueyo described the period of uncertainty regarding her health as “hard.” She explained that the decision to return home was based on the belief that “body and mind come first.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Pueyo’s decision to step back from the WNBA highlights the critical balance between pursuing a career peak and preventing permanent physical decline. By choosing recovery over a forced debut, she’s prioritizing long-term viability over an immediate, albeit risky, professional opportunity.

Where will Helena Pueyo play next?

After two seasons with Casademont Zaragoza following her time in the NCAA, Pueyo has ended her tenure in the Aragonese capital. She has committed to playing for Valencia Basket for the upcoming course.

Beyond her club commitments, Pueyo hopes to be selected by Miguel Méndez for the World Cup squad. While she expressed hope to have another opportunity to play in the WNBA in the future, her immediate focus remains on her health and her new commitment to Valencia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Helena Pueyo rescind her WNBA contract?
She rescinded her agreement with the Phoenix Mercury to recover from a foot injury sustained during the EuroLeague Final Six.

How did the injury occur?
Pueyo suffered a traumatism in a quarter-final game against Landes and aggravated the injury by playing in the semi-finals against Galatasaray.

Which team has Helena Pueyo signed with for the next season?
She has committed to playing for Valencia Basket.

How do you think professional athletes should balance the pressure to compete with the need for long-term physical recovery?