Think the Phoenix Mercury's 2000 season was just 'okay'? Think again! It was a year of unexpected triumphs and remarkable resilience, solidifying its place among their best seasons ever. They clawed their way back from a disappointing previous year, but how they did it, and the challenges they overcame, are what truly make this season stand out.
Let's rewind. After missing the playoffs in 1999 with a 15-17 record – a decent showing, but not enough to compete with powerhouses like the Houston Comets and Los Angeles Sparks – the Mercury were determined to turn things around. That 1999 season, while respectable, highlighted the intense competition in the Western Conference. Several teams were battling for those coveted playoff spots, and the Mercury simply didn't have the edge they needed.
And turn around they did! The Phoenix Mercury finished the 2000 season with a stellar 20-12 record, a significant improvement that propelled them back into the playoff picture. This impressive record alone makes it a season worth remembering. But here's where it gets interesting...
Before the season even began, the Mercury faced significant roster changes. The expansion draft loomed large, threatening to dismantle the team's core. The WNBA was expanding, adding four new teams: the Indiana Fever, the Miami Sol, the Portland Fire, and the Seattle Storm. This meant existing teams would have to sacrifice players to help these new franchises get off the ground.
Edna Campbell, a valuable player for the Mercury, was selected as the second pick in the expansion draft by the Seattle Storm. Shortly after, the Storm also picked up Toni Foster, further depleting the Mercury's roster. Losing two key players like Campbell and Foster could have been a devastating blow. Many teams would have struggled to recover, yet Phoenix found a way.
Despite losing Campbell and Foster, the Mercury's front office worked hard to bring in fresh talent. While they didn't have a first-round pick in the 2000 WNBA draft, they made the most of their later-round selections. They drafted Adrian Williams-Strong in the second round, Tauja Catchings in the third, and Shantia Owens in the fourth. And this is the part most people miss... While only Williams-Strong ultimately played for the Mercury, her impact was undeniable. She went on to become the franchise's fourth All-Star, proving that even late-round picks can make a significant contribution. It highlights the depth of talent available in the WNBA and the importance of scouting and player development.
The Mercury kicked off the 2000 season with a hard-fought victory over the New York Liberty, winning 51-48. Brandy Reed, the standout star of the game, dominated with 22 points, seven rebounds, three blocks, one assist, and one steal. Remarkably, she was the only player on the team to score in double figures, demonstrating her crucial role in securing the win.
They followed up that win with an impressive 80-62 victory over the Houston Comets. After a loss to the Utah Starzz, they bounced back with a dominant 82-49 win against the Seattle Storm, with Reed again leading the charge with 24 points. But the supporting cast was also stepping up; Bridget Pettis contributed 15 points, and Michelle Brogan added 14 points, four rebounds, three assists, and a steal. This team was showing signs of real depth and versatility.
With a win percentage of 62.5 percent, the 2000 season ranks as the Mercury's fifth-best in franchise history. It trails only the 1998 season and their three championship-winning seasons. Considering the challenges they faced with roster changes and the competitive landscape of the WNBA, this achievement is truly remarkable.
The Mercury's journey in the 2000 playoffs was cut short, but their mere presence in the postseason was a testament to their resilience and determination. They proved that even with setbacks, a team can achieve great things through hard work, strategic player acquisitions, and strong leadership.
So, was the 2000 season one of the Phoenix Mercury's best? Absolutely. They overcame adversity, developed new talent, and achieved a winning record that stands among their franchise's finest. But here's a question for you: Do you think the expansion draft era is inherently unfair to established teams, or is it a necessary part of league growth? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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