The year 2000 marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Phoenix Mercury, a team that would go on to dominate the WNBA. But here's where it gets controversial: despite their impressive performance that season, it would be their last playoff appearance until their championship win in 2007.
The Mercury finished the regular season with a record of 20-12, a testament to their resilience and talent. They started strong, defeating the New York Liberty and the Houston Comets, setting the tone for a promising campaign. In the final game, they showcased their mettle by beating the Portland Fire, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.
Come playoff time, Phoenix faced the formidable Los Angeles Sparks. Unfortunately, the Sparks prevailed, defeating the Mercury 2-0. Despite the loss, the Mercury put up a valiant fight, with some of their key players stepping up to the plate. And this is the part most people miss: the Mercury's performance in the 2000 playoffs was a testament to their collective strength and individual brilliance.
Brandy Reed, the franchise's third All-Star, led the team in scoring, averaging an impressive 14.0 points per game. But she wasn't alone; the Mercury had a formidable lineup, with four other players averaging double-digit points. Lisa Harrison and Jennifer Gillom both averaged 13.0 points, while Michelle Brogan and Bridget Pettis contributed 11 and 10.5 points, respectively.
Harrison also dominated the boards, averaging 5.5 rebounds per game, and was the team's best facilitator, dishing out five assists per game. The Mercury's ball movement was exceptional, with five players averaging at least one assist each. Their defense was equally impressive, with Tonya Edwards leading the team in steals, averaging two per game. Gillom, Head, and Williams-Strong also contributed significantly to the team's defensive efforts.
The 2000 season was a turning point for the Phoenix Mercury. Despite not advancing past the first round, they showcased their potential and laid the foundation for future success. It's a season that deserves recognition and celebration. So, join us on X as we delve deeper into the Mercury's 2000 season and their inspiring playoff run. Click here to read more and engage in the conversation! (https://x.com/MercuryOnSI)
What are your thoughts on the Phoenix Mercury's 2000 season? Do you think they deserved more recognition for their performance? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments!
