Kara Dunn, a standout player for USC women's basketball, has signed a training camp contract with the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, marking a significant step in her professional career. Dunn's journey to the WNBA is a testament to her talent and determination, despite not being drafted in the initial WNBA Draft.
Dunn's exceptional performance in her senior season at USC, where she averaged 15.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, earned her a spot on the All-Big Ten Second Team. Her shooting prowess, evident in her 47.5% field goal and 37.8% three-point shooting percentages, was a key factor in her success. A standout performance in January, where she scored at least 21 points in seven consecutive games, including a 25-point, 12-rebound game against then-No. 8 Iowa, solidified her place as one of the top players in the conference.
However, Dunn's path to the WNBA is not without challenges. She will have to compete for a spot on the Phoenix Mercury's roster, which boasts a highly talented lineup. The Mercury finished with the fourth-best record in the league in 2025 and reached the WNBA Finals, where they fell short to the Las Vegas Aces, a perennial powerhouse.
Dunn's signing is a significant achievement, considering she went undrafted in the initial draft. Her success at USC, where she became the 21st player to reach the WNBA under Head Coach Lindsay Gottlieb, highlights the program's ability to develop talent. The Mercury's interest in Dunn demonstrates the league's recognition of her potential and the impact she can have on a team.
This development also underscores the importance of independent media like the Daily Trojan in covering and promoting student athletes. The newspaper's support for Dunn's journey to the WNBA is a testament to its role in fostering the careers of USC's athletes. The Daily Trojan's independence, while challenging in terms of budget, allows it to provide a unique perspective on the University's actions and policies, ensuring that athletes like Dunn receive the recognition they deserve.
As Dunn embarks on her WNBA career, the Daily Trojan's support and the broader impact of her success on women's basketball cannot be overstated. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that hard work and talent can overcome initial setbacks and lead to remarkable achievements.
