The Phoenix Mercury's 2017 season was a challenging one, especially against their Western Conference rivals. But here's where it gets intriguing: why did they struggle so much against teams from the West?
The Mercury, a team with a rich history and a dedicated fan base, faced a formidable opponent in the Minnesota Lynx, who swept them in the previous season. And this time, they encountered another powerhouse in the West—the Los Angeles Sparks.
A Tale of Two Games:
The series opener was a heart-wrenching loss for Phoenix. The Sparks, playing away from home, clinched a narrow 89-87 victory. Chelsea Gray, a future Mercury player, showcased her all-around brilliance with 24 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, a steal, and a block. The Sparks had four other players in double digits, including Essence Carson, who would later join the Mercury.
Phoenix's star player, Diana Taurasi, led her team with 27 points, 3 rebounds, and an assist. Brittney Griner's performance was also noteworthy, contributing 21 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and a block. Yet, it wasn't enough to secure the win.
In the second game, the Mercury aimed to even the series, but the Sparks had other plans. Nneka Ogwumike guided her team to a decisive victory, with 18 points. Candace Parker and Riquna Williams also contributed, scoring 17 and 15 points, respectively. Gray added 12 points to her tally.
Taurasi, determined to lead her team to victory, scored 19 points, but it wasn't sufficient. Griner and Camille Little tried to rally the team, but the Sparks' defense held strong.
The Final Showdown:
In the last game, the Mercury needed a win to stay alive. However, the Sparks' Odyssey Sims had other ideas, scoring 28 points to lead her team to victory. Griner and Emma Cannon's efforts weren't enough to overcome the Sparks' momentum.
And this is the part most people miss: the Mercury's struggles against Western Conference teams weren't an isolated incident. The Lynx and Sparks, both powerhouses in their own right, showcased the depth and talent of the West. But was it a strategic mismatch or a temporary setback for the Mercury?
The 2017 season left many questions unanswered. Were the Mercury truly outmatched, or did they simply have an off-season? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don't forget to follow us on X for more captivating WNBA stories!
