The 2017 WNBA season was a rollercoaster for the Phoenix Mercury, and it all started with a bold statement of resilience. Despite kicking off the season with a loss to the Dallas Wings, the team rallied to finish with an impressive 18-16 record, securing yet another playoff berth. But here's where it gets intriguing: their journey wasn't just about wins and losses—it was about the unwavering impact of their starting lineup.
Led by powerhouse Brittney Griner, the Mercury’s starters set the tone early. In that opening game against Dallas, Griner dominated with 18 points, 2 rebounds, 2 blocks, and an assist, proving she was a force to be reckoned with. Camille Little chipped in with 11 points, but it was clear: Griner was the cornerstone. And this is the part most people miss—the consistency of Phoenix’s starting five, which included Griner, Little, Stephanie Talbot, Diana Taurasi, and Danielle Robinson, was the backbone of their success.
In their next game, Griner exploded for 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks, showcasing why she’s one of the league’s best. Taurasi and Robinson also stepped up, scoring 13 and 10 points, respectively. Off the bench, Leilani Mitchell made her presence felt with 11 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. This balanced attack became a hallmark of the Mercury’s season.
The team’s momentum continued as they defeated the San Antonio Stars 78-72, with Griner once again leading the charge. She notched a double-double (20 points, 13 rebounds) and added 4 blocks, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Taurasi contributed 17 points, while Mitchell and Robinson rounded out the effort with solid all-around performances. But here’s the controversial part: Was it Griner’s individual brilliance or the team’s chemistry that truly carried them? Some argue it’s a mix of both, but others believe Griner’s dominance overshadowed the rest.
The Mercury’s only stumble in this stretch came against the New York Liberty, losing 69-67 in a nail-biter. Epiphanny Prince’s clutch shot sealed the deal for New York, but what’s noteworthy is Phoenix’s lineup change—Mitchell started in place of Taurasi, who was serving a one-game suspension. This raises a thought-provoking question: How much did Taurasi’s absence impact the outcome? And could this have been a turning point in their season?
Overall, the 2017 Phoenix Mercury proved that a strong starting lineup can set the stage for success, even in the face of adversity. Their ability to bounce back from early setbacks and maintain consistency was commendable. But what do you think? Was it Griner’s dominance, the starters’ chemistry, or something else entirely that defined their season? Let us know in the comments!
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