The 1997 season marked a historic beginning for the Phoenix Mercury, as they joined the inaugural year of the WNBA, facing off against teams like the Cleveland Rockers, Houston Comets, and Sacramento Monarchs. With a record of 16-12, the Mercury secured their spot in the playoffs, but their journey was far from smooth. In a pivotal game against the New York Liberty, the Mercury fell short, with a disappointing 59-41 loss, a performance that left much to be desired.
However, the Mercury's roster was brimming with talent, and their success was built on a foundation of exceptional facilitators. Let's delve into the heart of their team and explore the players who made a significant impact.
The Facilitation Masters
Michele Timms, the Mercury's star facilitator, led the team with a remarkable 135 assists during the season. Her best performance came against the Utah Starzz, where she not only dished out nine assists but also dominated on the defensive end with eight steals, a season-high for her. This game showcased the Mercury's prowess and resulted in their third win of the season.
But here's where it gets interesting: Timms wasn't the only standout player. Bridget Pettis came close to reaching the 100-assist mark with 78 assists of her own. Her best outing, against Utah, saw her contribute seven assists, 14 points, six rebounds, and a steal.
Umeki Webb, with 68 assists, was third on the team, and her high of seven assists came against the Houston Comets, a game the Mercury won 69-64, securing their fifth victory.
And this is the part most people miss: Nancy Lieberman, known for her facilitating skills, added 40 assists to the team's tally. Her five assists against the Charlotte Sting helped the Mercury secure their 15th win.
Toni Foster and Tia Jackson rounded out the top five in assists, with 27 and 26 respectively.
The Mercury's 437 assists that season showcased the depth of their roster and the seamless ball movement that characterized their play. Players like Jennifer Gillom and others reaped the benefits, and the team's strong start set the stage for an even more impressive performance the following year.
So, what do you think? Are you impressed by the Mercury's facilitating prowess? Do you think their success was solely down to their facilitators, or did other factors play a role? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
