The Phoenix Mercury's 2000 season was nothing short of remarkable, marking a stunning rebound after their first-ever playoff miss in 1999. But here's where it gets controversial: Was this season a fluke, or the beginning of a new era for the team? Let’s dive in.
Kicking off with a 51-48 victory over the New York Liberty, the Mercury set the tone for what would become one of their most successful campaigns. They followed it up with a dominant 80-62 win against the Houston Comets, showcasing their potential early on. However, their first stumble came against the Utah Starzz, a loss that could have derailed their momentum. And this is the part most people miss: Instead of crumbling, Phoenix bounced back with a win over the Seattle Storm, proving their resilience.
One of the season’s standout moments came in a road game against the Portland Fire. Led by Brandy Reed, who scored 23 points and added five rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block, the Mercury secured a 75-69 victory. Reed’s performance wasn’t just a one-off—she went on to average career-highs of 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.1 steals, earning her a spot as the franchise’s third All-Star. Bold claim: Reed’s impact that season was arguably the linchpin of Phoenix’s success.
The Mercury’s most thrilling win, however, came in their rematch against the Portland Fire. In a nail-biting overtime game, Phoenix edged out an 81-80 victory, thanks to a balanced team effort. Jennifer Gillom stole the show with 28 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while Michelle Brogan and Tonya Edwards each contributed 18 points. This game wasn’t just a win—it was a statement.
While the overtime victory against the Fire was their only extra-time game of the season, Phoenix faced several other close contests. They narrowly defeated the Indiana Fever 66-65 but fell just short in a 61-60 loss to the Sacramento Monarchs. These tight games highlighted the team’s grit and determination, even if they didn’t always come out on top.
Finishing the regular season with a 20-12 record, the Mercury clinched a playoff spot, only to be swept 2-0 by the Los Angeles Sparks. Despite the early postseason exit, the 2000 season remains one of Phoenix’s brightest chapters, with the overtime win over the Fire standing as a defining moment.
Controversial question for you: Was the 2000 Mercury team underappreciated, or did they simply benefit from a weaker league? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to follow us on X for more deep dives into Phoenix’s historic seasons—click here to stay updated: https://x.com/MercuryOnSI!
