Catching Up with Lexi Held

I had one goal for this WNBA season. I wanted to meet Phoenix Mercury rookie Lexi Held.

I covered Lexi during her career at DePaul. She was a star and a total class act. After one Big Ten Tournament title victory, I got a selfie with Lexi on the court. The next year, when DePaul won it again, I went for another selfie with Lexi and she said, "Just like last year." I was a bit surprised she remembered that, but that's just Lexi.

After DePaul, Lexi went undrafted, but signed with the Chicago Sky. In a questionable move, the Sky did not keep her, but that was probably better for her. She went overseas. Early this season, Phoenix signed Lexi and she has been a solid rookie, averaging 17 minutes and 7 points off the bench.

I looked at the Sky schedule and figured a Sunday night game might be my best shot at a press pass. The Sky's bad season certainly worked in my favor, That strategy worked, as I got my first Sky pass in a couple seasons.

I arrived early at the arena to watch practice. I immediately saw Lexi, but that was not the time to approach her. The Merc beat the Sky and Lexi had 5 points in 18 minutes off the bench.

I was a bit disappointed as it looked like I would not meet her after the game. I attended the Sky post-game press session and took one last look at the court. I am glad I did.

There was Lexi, surrounded by family, friends and some DePaul folks. Former DePaul Coach Doug Bruno waved me over and greeted me warmly. Now I knew I would get her eventually.

I waited patiently as she talked to others. Then she saw me and I got a big Lexi hug. We chatted a bit and I got my picture. (Bonus: Coach Bruno is in the background.) I didn't want to overstay my welcome. I got what I wanted.

Mission accomplished. See you next season, Lexi!

Lexi Held and me in Chicago, IL-August 2025.