McIntyre pens deal with WNBA's Phoenix Mercury

Two-time NBL champion Fleur McIntyre is ready for the next chapter of her basketball career, after accepting an assistant general manager role with WNBA franchise, the Phoenix Mercury.

"To be able to work in the WNBA is really exciting," McIntyre said.

"It’s been a long time since I’ve been back involved in women’s basketball but I’ve always followed the WNBA and certainly know the league and the players."

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Sydney's assistant coach is the latest King to chase their hoop dreams in the United States.

Much like Xavier Cooks, Brian Bowen, Andrew Bogut, Jae’Sean Tate and Didi Louzada have done in recent years, McIntyre is ready for the next challenge in her basketball career - an opportunity that all started during her 2023 NBA Summer League stint with Sant Antonio.

"After conversations with the Mercury, I asked the Kings ownership permission to interview with the club - which they allowed," McIntyre said.

"That led to me getting offered a job, which I'm really appreciative of.

"I also felt really emotional (and still do) at the possibility of leaving the Kings and this organisation and especially the players and coaching staff who I adore."

Perth native McIntyre, who joined the Hoops Capital side in 2021, will finish the current campaign with the purple and gold before heading to Arizona in April.

"I feel like I can bring my usual positive energy and loyalty to this new role [in Phoenix]," McIntyre said.

"I tend to throw myself into any opportunity I’m presented with - I don’t know any other way than to just be me and work collaboratively to help the individuals and organisation I’m fortunate to be working with.

"I’m also lucky that I’ve worked closely with our front office the last three years at the Kings, alongside the likes of Chris Pongrass and Luc Longley.

"[As such] I feel I have some insight there in terms of how everything fits together but also from coaching and learning under Chase [Buford] and Mahmoud [Abdelfattah] the last three years - I believe I’ve had wonderful lessons on the basketball side."

Kings CEO Chris Pongrass is thrilled for McIntyre, knowing full well the impact she can make on a basketball organisation.

“Fleur has been such a core part of this organisation for the past three seasons – we would not be where we are today without her tactical approach to the game, her calming energy and unwavering commitment to our playing group," Pongrass said.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Fleur in making this jump to the WNBA - her move to a front office role is a testament to her knowledge, experience, and her ability to create meaningful relationships with those around her.

“I feel truly privileged that we played a role in her development and pathway to achieving such an important role in Phoenix.

"Fleur will be sorely missed, but will forever be ingrained in the fabric of the Sydney Kings.

"We thank the Mercury, particularly Nick U’Ren, for their consideration of Fleur finishing the season with the Kings – we look forward to watching the team grow under their management.”

Upon reflecting that her time with the harbour city club is coming to an end, she is extremely grateful for all the memories she's created.

"My time at Hoops Capital has provided me with experiences and opportunities I never thought possible," she said.

"To be able to share, collaborate and learn from our coaches, our players, front office staff and ownership has provided invaluable experience but more importantly memories and friendships that will last forever.

"I will be forever grateful I walked into this organisation three years ago and to be embraced by the Sydney Kings and also the NBL.

"The support from our fans and to be able to share all the special moments with you is something I cherish. 

"But most of all I feel incredibly privileged that I have been on the court with people I love every single day for the last three years with this team.

"Thank you seems inadequate - but I’m hopeful it conveys how honoured I feel to have shared in your journey."