Imagine a team on the brink of a six-year playoff drought, only to emerge as champions when they finally break through. That's the story of the Phoenix Mercury, whose 2000 season marked both the end of an era and the beginning of a transformative journey. But here's where it gets controversial: while their 2000 draft picks didn't immediately propel them to glory, they laid the groundwork for future success—and one player, in particular, became a shining star in an otherwise challenging season.
The Mercury's 2000 campaign ended with a respectable 20-12 record, earning them a playoff spot. However, their postseason run was short-lived, as they were swept 2-0 by the Los Angeles Sparks, who eventually fell to the Houston Comets in the next round. The Comets went on to claim another championship, leaving Phoenix to regroup and rebuild. Little did they know, their 2000 WNBA Draft picks would play pivotal roles in their future resurgence—though not always in the ways they expected.
With three late-round picks, the Mercury aimed to bolster their roster. Their first selection, in the second round, was Adrian Williams-Strong, a player who would become a cornerstone of their team. And this is the part most people miss: Williams-Strong's impact wasn't just about stats; she embodied resilience and leadership during a tumultuous period for the franchise. By 2003, she had earned All-Star honors, averaging career-highs of 9.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. Her standout performance? A 20-point, 11-rebound masterpiece against the Detroit Shock, proving she was a force to be reckoned with.
Williams-Strong remained with the Mercury until 2004, when she was traded to the San Antonio Silver Stars. Her journey then took her to the Minnesota Lynx and Sacramento Monarchs, showcasing her versatility and adaptability across the league. Meanwhile, Phoenix's other 2000 picks followed different paths. Tauja Catchings, drafted after Williams-Strong, never suited up for the Mercury. Despite signing with the Orlando Miracle, her WNBA career never materialized. Similarly, Shantia Owens, the Mercury's final pick, was traded to the Miami Sol, where she played 31 games and started 16. Her highlight? A 12-point performance against the Shock, though her career was cut short after brief stints with the Charlotte Sting.
While not every pick panned out, the Mercury's 2000 draft class undeniably left its mark. Williams-Strong's All-Star status and consistent performance were a beacon of hope during a difficult era. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Did the Mercury's late-round picks in 2000 set the stage for their eventual championship in 2007, or was their success purely coincidental? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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