While doing my usual WNBA morning research, I came across a quote from last night's game by Michael Cooper (head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks) that really surprised me. 

"We are still in the playoff hunt, still right there," coach Michael Cooper said. "We are 14-14. Once playoffs come around I don't care what anyone says, the championship is going to run through Los Angeles."

Obviously, the portion in bold is what caught my eye, and got me thinking. Here were my initial thoughts:

·     I realize that Cooper probably had to say that to assure his team and fans that he still has the utmost confidence in them. Still, the argument probably falls through since the Mercury have won all 3 meetings this year...

·     I love that the Mercury, no matter how difficult or trying things get, would never say something like that - they'd let their game speak for itself and give credit to the opposing team who beat them.

·     The Mercury's collective humbleness, in addition to their greatness, is what makes them so endearing to so many people.

Having said that, I don't mean to come across as judgmental or mean it as an indictment of Michael Cooper as a person or coach. On the contrary, as I mentioned above, he probably needed to say that to his players and fans to assure them he is 100% confident in his team.  

However, I can't help wonder how much more honorably that Corey Gaines would've handled a similar situation. Gaines has repeatedly given credit to opposing teams when due and displayed honor and integrity in a loss; if the Mercury got beat, he acknowledges it, explains what the team needs to do differently next time, and stays humble. 

Though, that's what the entire team is about - character, honor, and loyalty. I'll never forget the quote from Diana Taurasi in 2007 heading into the finals, "We're in the finals? I didn't even know!" And guess what? She went out and let her game do the talking and brought home a championship trophy. 

In addition to how phenomenal of a basketball team the Mercury are proving to be, they stay grounded and humble by giving back to the community on a consistent basis despite not being recognized for it (they do it because it's the right thing to do). For instance, Temeka Johnson is hosting HOPE Night tomorrow at US Airways Center to raise money for her H.O.P.E. Foundation (Heaven Opens People's Eyes) which focuses on helping individuals and communities that are underserved.  Recently, Cappie Pondexter joined youth at the Boys & Girls Club to help them shop for back-to-school items. Ketia Swanier's foundation (Ketia4Kidz) helps children of military families and provides educational and personal developmental support. Tangela Smith often volunteers/helps the Save the Family Foundation for homeless children. Other players, like Kelly Mazzante, regularly host basketball camps for youth to teach discipline, teamwork, and accountability. 

Sure, it's easy to root for a team that is winning and has great players to watch. However, the Mercury make it so much fun and heart-warming to support and follow with an entire team/organization of genuinely good human beings.  

Staying humble and giving back - these are the qualities the team exudes that I respect and love more than anything else.