The 2000 season was a standout year for the Phoenix Mercury, marking a significant turning point in their franchise history! It wasn't just about wins and losses; it was a season where individual brilliance and team effort garnered well-deserved recognition, even if some top honors eluded them.
In 2000, the Phoenix Mercury achieved a remarkable 20-14 record, a first for the team in terms of reaching the 20-win milestone. This impressive performance placed them fourth in the highly competitive Western Conference. To give you a sense of just how stacked that conference was, the Los Angeles Sparks dominated with a 28-4 record, followed closely by the Houston Comets at 27-5. Even the Sacramento Monarchs finished ahead of Phoenix with a solid 21-11 record.
This strong showing earned the Mercury their third playoff appearance in franchise history. Their postseason journey saw them face the formidable Los Angeles Sparks. While the Sparks ultimately won that series, and then went on to lose to the Comets in the next round, the Mercury's presence in the playoffs was a testament to their progress.
But here's where it gets really interesting: the Mercury weren't just participants; they were contenders for major WNBA awards! Leading the charge was Brandy Reed, who emerged as a legitimate Most Valuable Player (MVP) candidate, garnering 31 MVP points. This was a truly exceptional season for Reed. She posted a career-high average of 19.0 points per game. What makes her story even more compelling is her journey back to Phoenix. Drafted by the Mercury in 1998, she was later selected by the Minnesota Lynx in an expansion draft. After a stellar season with the Lynx, the Mercury orchestrated a trade to bring her back, and she quickly became Phoenix's third All-Star. While she received MVP consideration, the award ultimately went to Sheryl Swoopes.
And this is the part most people miss... Reed's impact wasn't limited to MVP talks. She was also a strong contender for the Most Improved Player award, tying for fifth place with three points. Although Tari Phillips took home the trophy, Reed's high ranking highlights her significant leap in performance that season.
Beyond Reed, other Mercury players also received recognition. Jennifer Gillom was a nominee for the Sportsmanship Award, earning four points. The award was won by Suzie McConnell Serio, who received 16 points. Even the coaching staff got a nod, with Head Coach Cheryl Miller receiving votes for Coach of the Year, securing three points. For context, the legendary Michael Cooper, coaching the Sparks, won the award with a commanding 37 points.
While the 2000 season was undoubtedly a high point, the team experienced a dip, missing the playoffs in 2001. Their next postseason appearance wouldn't be until 2007. Nevertheless, the 2000 season remains a memorable chapter, celebrated for the team's accomplishments and the individual accolades earned by its players.
What are your thoughts on Brandy Reed's MVP-caliber season? Do you believe she deserved more recognition? Share your opinions in the comments below!
