I agree, amarefan. There is probably a huge story that we don't know about. I admire Penny and Dee's post game reactions. They are handling themselves with class without saying anything negative against Cappie. To me, this shows which players have better character. I had forgotten the fan event situation with Cappie. At the time, I chalked that up to Cappie just being young and new. Now, I'm definitely thinking differently. What a gutless coward.
As the Mercury face a pivotal game 4 in Indy tomorrow night, I’ve taken some time to look back on the 2009 season and how much it has impacted and influenced me for the better. As I’m writing this, I fully realize it probably goes against all unwritten (or written) rules of the so-called ‘media’, but to be frank, I don’t really care. Many of you know that I write for a few different outlets (DIME Magazine, Fanster, etc.) and I’d like to preface that the rule of “objective journalism” most definitely does not apply in the following paragraphs.
Quite simply, I love the Mercury.
Not that it’s a new revelation by any means. I’ve covered basketball (namely the NBA) for a while and have always been a fan and supporter of the WNBA. In fact, one of my best friends growing up was former Mercury player Ann Strother whom I frequently lost to when we played basketball together (and by ‘frequently’ I mean ‘every single time’). Not just because I was a foot shorter than her (and still am) but because she was (and still is) a much better basketball player than me. I had absolutely no shame or embarrassment in admitting it then, and still don’t to this day. It was never a gender issue in the least and I certainly never felt emasculated – she was damn good for crying out loud! The amount of respect I have for the women’s game has, and will continue to be, immeasurable. However, it still bothers me that society tends to make a big deal out of something like this. It shouldn’t matter if a player is a man or woman; if they’re better than you at the game just be thankful you had the opportunity to play with or against them as it undeniably made you better.
On that topic, I’ve never understood the immediate dismissal of the WNBA by men. If I’m honest, I think it deals with some deeper personal issues for many guys out there rather than the typical sentiment of “they’re not as fun to watch” as the NBA. I’ve also spent time calling out the guys who have ignored or downplayed the significance of the WNBA and as a result have been called every negative adjective you’ve ever heard. From time to time, I see articles defending the WNBA and defining various reasons why it should be recognized. While I have done the same, it also saddens me that those articles even have to be written in the first place. In the year 2009, I believe as a culture we should be past the point where selling out a WNBA game is a major event – it should already be that way due to how amazing these ladies are. I stand firm to the belief, and will happily defend it to anyone, that if you dismiss the WNBA you’re not a true fan of the game of basketball. There is nothing to dislike about the WNBA. Not a single thing.
Thus, when I started covering the Mercury this year in much greater depth than ever before, I quickly became immersed in the culture – perhaps more so than the NBA, and this is coming from a guy who has the Phoenix Suns logo tattooed on my forearm (FYI - I still love the Suns). Those who have followed the league just as closely for a long period of time know exactly what I’m talking about. There is a sort of “magical” aura that surrounds the WNBA (and the Phoenix Mercury) and there really aren’t any words describing it that would do it justice.
I was fortunate enough to truly devote the vast majority of my time this summer to this Mercury team, a group of individuals who are not only phenomenal basketball players but even better human beings. To see firsthand the dedication and devotion they have to the sport was eye-opening and inspiring to me both as a basketball player and as a person. I’ve had the privileged opportunity to get to know a few players beyond the superficial and it has been a humbling and moving experience. The amount of class, character, and integrity every lady has on this team is second to none. Whether it be spending a few extra minutes talking to the media answering the same question 5 times in a row, discussing their faith and how it’s impacted them, or just smiling and saying ‘hi’ it’s been a refreshing experience for me compared to other professional teams and/or athletes that I’ve covered or had experience with. It’s amazing how far a little kindness goes, and this Mercury team is overflowing with it.
Now, I’ve certainly had my share of negative experiences with professional athletes. About 11 or 12 years ago I worked maintenance at a high-profile golf course in Colorado. I was the guy you see on the riding mower or cutting weeds in the rough, making far too much noise when you’re trying to concentrate on your next golf shot. Anyway, a plethora of professional athletes would golf there and while I won’t name them personally, I was very much looked down on and dismissed as a second-class citizen. Not that this unfortunate occurrence is unique to the sports world, but as a die-hard sports and basketball fan and player my whole life, needless to say, my perspective on professional athletes changed. It became a bit jaded and my view of the “perfect world of sports” was not what I thought it was. This feeling fluctuated in subsequent years but never truly went away.
Nevertheless, that spirit was completely rejuvenated over this past summer much to my delight. Seeing the genuineness of these Mercury players brought that feeling back in full force that there are, in fact, decent human beings in this business. They spend countless hours out in the community making things better, set extraordinary examples for young women to follow, and deserve the recognition that other professional athletes get.
That’s why, quite frankly, I’m not ready for this to end – and certainly not tomorrow. Like you, I’ve enjoyed this season far too much to have it be over already, especially after the magical season the Mercury has had thus far. If there is anything I’ve learned about this Mercury team, it’s that they have zero quit in them; it’s not in their vocabulary. I’ve stated many times that they are the most resilient team in the WNBA and I have the utmost faith that we’ll see that from them on Wednesday. With the amount of adversity they’ve faced this year, and how they’ve bounced back strongly every time, I’m excited to see their collective response tomorrow evening – it will be one for the books.
While this article may be over-the-top for some people and perhaps too personal, I’m okay with that because I can assure you it’s the honest truth. And while we gear up to support the Mighty Mercury tomorrow, lets also be thankful for what they have already done and why we invest so much of ourselves in them.
Now, what do you say we get that game 4 win and bring it home on Friday in front of the X-Factor – you know I’ll be there.
The Phoenix Mercury might have led the league this year in assists on the court, but they haven’t forgotten to dish out help off it either. Along with the WNBA and Toyota, The Mercury took some time away from the WNBA Finals stage to assist in the unveiling of a new reading and learning center at the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA.
Under the WNBA Cares program, over $25,000 went to renovate and refurbish the old reading room, including a new purple-and-orange paint job, hundreds of new books, new computers and even a new air hockey table. Now members will have new furniture to rest on as they enjoy their favorite books, or can make some music playing the new Rock Band videogame on an Xbox 360 connected to a new big screen television.
Jeff Myers, who is the Executive Director of the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA, couldn’t be happier with all the support given by the Mercury and the WNBA.
“We didn’t invest anything in this project, it was all the WNBA Cares program,” said Myers. “We are quite fortunate and blessed to have partners like the WNBA and the Phoenix Mercury who take the time to help out in the community.”
Some of the Mercury players took a break from preparing for Game 2 to be there for the unveiling and to read to the children afterwards. But these athletes couldn’t avoid the temptation of the games around them for too long, as they gave in to their inner child. Forward Le’coe Willingham was jamming out to Rock Band while center Nicole Ohlde challenged one of the younger members to a game of air hockey. Overall, it was time well spent away from the courts of the US Airways Center for the players.
“Anytime you can come and help out within the community is a fun time,” said Willingham. “This YMCA does great things for the youth of the city, and I was very happy that the WNBA and the organization came together to help them out.”
Asked whether she sees a future as a musician ahead of her, the five-year veteran out of Auburn simply replied, “I’ll just stick to basketball now.”
WNBA Cares is a part of NBA Cares, an initiative through which, the leagues, players and teams will raise and contribute $100 million for charity, donate more than 1 million hours of hands-on volunteer service to communities worldwide, and build more than 100 places where kids can learn and play over the next five years. Mercury President and COO Jay Parry was on hand, along with other representatives from the WNBA and even NBA legend Bob Lanier.
Myers believes the community involvement of the WNBA goes beyond making the YMCA more youth-friendly. He believes the effects will resonate deeper with local families.
“It shows that they [WNBA] is willing and able to invest in one of the most important assets our world has to offer, which is the youth,” Myers told PhoenixMercury.com. “It shows me that we have a partner that is willing to work with us to put kids in the downtown area in a better place. Ultimately, these young people will go on to bigger and better things.”
Has anyone seen the LA SParks team? Just wondering 'cause they didnt show up to the game last night!!!!
With what appears to be Lisa Lesleys final WNBA game you'd expect LA to come out of the shute kicking and screaming. You would expect to see a very physical and emotional SParks teams that would have Phoenix fans worried throughout this game. A Game 3 for LA that would be fueled by energy, emotions, and respect for Lisa Lesley. Well, NONE OF THAT HAPPENED OR WAS EVEN CLOSE TO HAPPENING. I sat amazed at the end of each quarter just wondering what the heck was going thru the minds of the Sparks team. Not to take away anything from the Mighty Mercury, it just was not the game I expected to see. So with that, lets break it down:
1st qtr- Tangela Smith hits an early 3. DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE it was remarkable the way the Mercury played defense throughout this entire game. Taurasi, Pondexter once again scoring early in the game giving Phx. a HUGE lead. LA could not find their shot at all this first quarter. When they did shoot, it was waaaaay off. I need to give credit to the Mercury team for holding LA to only 7 pts at the end of the 1st. qtr. That alone just doesnt happen. Oh, but it did!! At the end of the first qtr. the score is Phx. 19 and LA 7. Still a very low score for the Mercury but still on top.
2nd. qtr- So after the break you figure, Ok LA will come out ready to go. Ready to play some playoff basketball. "Lets do it for Lisa" type attitude, right? Ummmmm, NO. Penny Taylor comes in off the bench for Phx. and causes the Sparks to foul her numerous time. Penny misses 2 early free throws but manages to get back on track hitting two 3pt. shots. Phx. causes the Sparks to turnover the ball and the Mercury take advantage and score off the turnovers. Ohlde comes in for Phx. and just plays her heart out. She is blocking shots, causing problems for LA under the basket. Ohlde is playing tonight one of her best games. She is holding her own down low making it hard for Lisa Lesley to get a good look at the basket. Ohlde was great in tonights game. Along with Ohlde, pretty much every Mercury player was causing LA to turn the ball over in one way or another. It was once again AWESOME DEFENSE. Oh have I mentioned Tina Thompson? No I haven't. She still hasnt done anything at this point in the game thats why. Thompson has -0- points in the first half for LA. At the end of the 2nd qtr. Phx leads LA 41 to 25
Start of 3rd qtr- Emotions start to flare up! FINALLY!!! The 3rd qtr starts at the pace the Mercury like to play at. A huge advantage to them. Tina Thompson finally draws a foul and goes to the line to get her first points of the night. Coach Cooper comes racing over to the Mercury side of the court to debate a call from the officials and gets called with a technical foul. Taurasi goes to the line to shoot the technical. Candice Parker cant seem to find her rhythm either and gets into foul trouble at this time. LA is expecting alot out of Candice Parker but she cant seem to get her game on tonight. A very young Parker has alot to carry on those broad shoulders of hers. The weight tonight just might have been a bit too much. Cappie pondexter gets called for a technical foul with just seconds left in the qtr. Alot of emotions building up as the game is just 10 minutes away from being over. At the end of the qtr. Phx. leads LA 61 to 48
4th qtr- Tangela Smith gets called for her 5th foul just 12 seconds into the qtr. Still playing hard, Phx knows not to even think of slowing down the pace of this game. LA even though behind in pts can come back at any given time. Tameka Johnson for Phx. is all over the place. She is making shots, pushing the ball down the court and causing plays to happen for Phx. Johnson is fast and furious!! Taurasi comes back into the game after a well rested 3rd qtr and just takes over once again. Hitting her shots and causing turnovers, Taurasi knwos that the clock is ticking and wants to win big. With just 3:09 left in the game, Candice Parker fouls out and is sent to the bench. Not long following Parker, Lisa Lesley fouls out. The crowd stands and cheers for a legend in her own. The final game for Lisa Lesley. A moment she knew she would have to face has come full circle. She walks off the court into the arms of her coach and fellow players. A tearful Candice Parker hugs Lisa as the final seconds tick away on the clock. At the end of the 4th qtr. PHX WINS 85 to 74
My thoughts: LA fell behind early in this game and could not catch up at all. Poor shooting by LA and turnovers cost them this game. EXCELLENT DEFENSE by the Phx. Mercury team the entire game. LA was playing without emotion, energy or focus. For some reason LA's spark was burned out!!
The clash of the titans. The cream of the crop. The best of the west. Whatever expression that can be invented still won’t do this Western Conference Finals justice. If you’re a basketball purist, Game 3 on Saturday night is a can’t-miss. Not only will the two best teams left in the west battle for their playoff lives, but arguably two of the best players in the league will have to find a way to will their teams to victory.
In one corner, you have a 6-5 forward in Candace Parker who is quickly garnering every accomplishment available the WNBA offers. She is one of only three people in all of basketball, men’s or women’s, to win both Rookie of the Year and MVP honors in the same year. In the other corner, you have a fiery 6-0 guard who has done nothing but win in every aspect of her career. This year, she has shattered more franchise and league records than a lot of people knew even existed.
“Watching these two ballclubs, with the great players each posses, has been terrific for the true basketball fan in me,” said Mercury General Manager Ann Meyers Drysdale.
It’s no wonder that these two highly-competitive individuals share similarities with one another. Both were NCAA champions during their days in college, with both being named to the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award. Both were the overall first pick in their respective draft, as they both went on to be the Rookie of the Year in their debut season in the WNBA. All-WNBA teams, All-Star selections, Olympic gold medals…the list goes on and on. However, both have accomplished one thing the other hasn’t. Parker has never won a WNBA championship, while Taurasi has never earned MVP honors.
For DT3, that might change after this season where she put up blistering stats and led her team to the best record in the WNBA. A strong candidate for the Most Valuable Player award, Taurasi has upped her game this post season. Averaging 20.4 ppg on 46-percent shooting, Taurasi also averaged 41% 3-point FG and 89% FT. Here’s what she is averaging in the five games she played in the playoffs so far:
24.4 ppg, 55% FG, 44% 3-point FG, and a perfect 100% FT from the line.
Even through all the praise and acknowledgments, Taurasi still believes in the “big picture.”
“You know, I’m never was big on individual stats and awards,” she told PhoenixMercury.com. “I just go out and try to do what needs to be done in order for us to win the game. Holding that title will be the only praise I need.”
If that’s the case, Dee needs to go through one tall obstacle standing in her way to compete for that title. Certainly, Parker hasn’t made things any easier for the Mercury. This series, she is averaging 26 ppg, 14 rpg, 1.5 bpg while shooting 61-percent from the floor.
Something will have to give. One of these players will have to take their game to even a higher level if they wish to see their season continue for at least three more games. Taurasi remarked how once the Mercury season ends, the players will go their separate ways playing in various countries in the offseason. She simply followed with, “We’re not ready for that yet.”
So who will ultimately win in this matchup of the WNBA elite? The answer is easier than one might think. It will be the fans who show up at the US Airways Center Saturday night. The “X-factor” will be treated to some fantastic basketball being played by two of the WNBA’s brightest young stars. Oh, did I mention Cappie Pondexter, Lisa Leslie, Penny Taylor, and Tina Thompson will also feature in this heavyweight bout? Regardless of the outcome, Saturday’s game has the potential to be an instant classic. Just as the Phoenix Mercury playoff slogan goes, everyone in attendance will be “All in.”
The Silver Stars are long gone!!!! Time to focus on the Sparks!!
The Los Angeles Sparks are going to be ready. They are well rested and ready to go. The Rivalary betweeen these two teams speak for itself. Always been a good match up and this series is no exception. We should all expect a battle from both teams as it it vital to win game #1. A dual to the death if you will. The Sparks and the Mercury are pretty well matched up against each other. Both teams playing similar style of basketball. First lets start with the Sparks.
Sparks- The Sparks like I said come into this series a well rested team and ready to go. The experience that lies beneath the soles of this team is to be respected. With Lisa Lesley looking to retire after this post season, it should be of no surprise to anyone that she and her teamates want to go out on top. A legacy in her own, Lisa Lesley is the leader of this team on and off the court. A prime example of how passion, commitment, and sacrifice can lead you to the top. With the likes of Parker and Thompson by her side, the LA Sparks will give all they have to win this series and the championship for Lisa Lesley. The Sparks have been in this situation many many times and they can handle the pressure that lies before them. Their experience will keep them focused throughout this series. Experience is their advantage.
Mercury- As the Mercury enter this series they come in a very tired and banged up team. With not much rest between games, exhaustion and sore bodies may become an issue. The Mercury being a very young team will have to do some work to remain poised and focused especially if they fall behind in game #1. This team may be young, but they have skills!! NEVER UNDERESTIMATE SKILLS. They are a fast paced team with many players offering different types of skills on the floor. So it seems to me that this series will come down to Skills vs. Experience. Although the Mercury will come into this series with its skills, will it be enough to beat LA? Of course it is. The Phoenix Mercury have the same passion and desire to win as the LA SParks. They are competitiors at heart and this game is their passion. Do not doubt that this Mercury team will play any less of a game than their counterparts. Taurasi will have to lead this team just as she always has. She will have to make sure that they stay focused and poised and play a very controlled game against LA. If you lose focus against LA, they will run all over you! This we all know. The Mercury must continue to shoot the ball well, control the boards offensively and defensively as well as have less turnovers. Defensively the Mercury is going to have to shut down the middle lane and force outside shots. Dont get me wrong here. I know LA can shoot the outside shot but if LA continues to drive the ball inside we could find ourselves in early foul trouble. Defense is key against the Sparks. Shooting the ball comes naturally to some players, but defense is what will help the Mercury win this series. Smith and Bonner are awesome underneath the basket and tomorrow nites game is going to expect another 110% out from each of them. Another weapon to use, Penny Taylor off the bench. Just amazing.
Final thoughts.........
If the Mercury can win game #1 Is eee them winning the series. If they lose game #1 I see them winning the series. Nice huh? A very tough road ahead but one that has been traveled before by both teams.
Skills vs. Experience. Be respectful of experience, Never underestimate skills. This is going to be a good one!! GOOD LUCK TO THE PHX. MERCURY. LETS GET THIS DONE!!
Those were the proverbial words spoken by UConn head coach, Geno Auriemma, before the Huskies played in the 2003-2004 National Championship game.
Tonight, Corey Gaines could've said the exact same thing.
It wasn't just her 30 points on 11-17 shots. It wasn't the additional 6 assists. It wasn't just her being active on the glass with a solid 5 rebounds.
It was much more than that.
It was her leadership and confidence that inspired this Mercury team to prevail over the Silver Stars, advancing to the Western Conference Finals. You could tell by watching her activeness on the court that she wasn't going to let the Mercury lose. Every single time the Mercury needed a big shot, or simply just to settle down, Taurasi was there to send a spark (pun intended) through the team and inspire confidence throughout the entire game.
As always, Taurasi deflected any individual credit to the entire team. "That's the way we want to play, we want to play unselfish," Diana said. "We want to make the extra pass, we want to create problems for people and you can only do that when you have people who are confident in taking and making shots and today was a perfect example of no matter what point in the game, whoever was in, those are the people we have confidence in. There were five people in double figures tonight, that is the way we want to play."
Still, it is hard to ignore the phenomenal game Diana had. "She's being modest," Cappie said about Taurasi. "But the way she played is team basketball. I had to tell her to go a couple times. That's what we do for each other." It's also hard to ignore the huge emphasis the X-Factor had in the game tonight. Over 7,000 loud fans kept the Mercury motivated and pumped. "I guess the home court came into effect," Gaines said after the game about the home court.
Taurasi helped ignite the rest of the Mercury too, when needed. Tangela Smith had a huge 4th quarter with 8 points and 2 big rebounds in the closing minutes. DeWanna Bonner came off the bench with 11 points and 6 rebounds, including 3 huge free-throws. Penny Taylor had a game-saving loose ball deflection in the final :30 seconds as well as her 11 points, 4 assists, and 6 rebounds.
Quite simply, it was an exceptional team effort that propelled the Mercury to victory.
After all, we knew the Silver Stars weren't going down without a fight. Becky Hammon and Vickie Johnson played brilliantly in the loss. "I'm really proud of my team," said Dan Hughes. "They did a lot of things well in this game it just wasn't enough. That's the type of team Phoenix has. You have to hit the mark in a lot of ways to beat them. We got close but we couldn't get it done. Give Phoenix a lot of credit."
As mentioned, Becky Hammon shot the ball out of her mind tonight hitting 6 three's on her way to a 29 point performance. "They have a lot of great players, that's what happened," said Becky. "I thought we did some things well but we had a couple of back-to-back turnovers down the stretch and they really hurt us. Phoenix will hurt anybody that doesn't take care of the ball because they're immediately coming back at you the other way."
On a more dreary note, Vickie Johnson played a fantastic game, which will be her last in the WNBA. "I just wanted to go out there and give everything I had," Johnson said about her distinguished career. "To leave everything on the court and just play hard. I think I did that, I have no regrets. I hope the fans of the WNBA know that I tried to play the game of basketball the right way." Perhaps more so than anyone, Silver Stars head coach Dan Hughes will miss Vickie. "The loss tonight is going to sting me," Hughes said. "But the way she [Vickie] played tonight is going to enrich me. I'm a better person and coach because I have had four seasons with her. I'm so privileged to be able to coach her. She looked like she was 23 years old on the court tonight."
In all, this win along with the play of captains Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter should provide a setting for an epic showdown against the Los Angeles Sparks. "This is a great way to prepare for LA," Penny Taylor said after the game. "This is a tough, tough team but LA is a different team in the sense that they're bigger and have other threats. But this team loves to play basketball, we don't like resting, we want to play more games."
Luckily for Mercury fans, they will.
Plus, the Mercury has Diana Taurasi. The Sparks don't.
Other Notes
Phoenix's 100-92 victory over the Silver Stars marked the first time in league history a squad has posted back-to-back games of at least 100 points in postseason play.
Phoenix beat the Silver Stars on the glass each of the three games, and 8 out of the last 10 opponents they've faced.
The Mercury are 14-0 when hitting at least 35 shots.
Phoenix's benched outscored the Silver Stars bench, 26-4.
September 21st. 2009 WNBA Playoffs. Game 3 of the Western Conference Semi-Finals. Series tied at 1-1.
It all comes down to this. For the Mercury, it's win...or stay home.
However, the Mercury has managed to shift the momentum back in their favor, and have several things they should feel good about in this proverbial elimination game.
To start, the series has clearly shifted momentum with the Mercury's convincing and inspiring home win in game 2. Essentially, they did just about everything right in that game, and it's reflected in one of the most amazing box scores I've ever seen. Though, as any championship coach would tell you, Corey Gaines isn't quite comfortable or content. "There's always something you can find to work on after watching the film," said Gaines at practice Sunday. "We'll be ready."
Phoenix also will have a healthy, fresh squad of players to go on Monday. No Mercury played more than 26 minutes, and the starters essentially sat the entire fourth quarter. "That was huge," Gaines told me. "I know they sat theirs too earlier than usual but for us to get rest was big." Unquestionably, the most important part of their win in game 2 was the way Phoenix put away the game early, and never let the Silver Stars back in. Had they let San Antonio go on any sort of run, the Silver Stars could've found a positive to take away and build upon heading into the deciding game Monday. Instead, they'll need to start from scratch after a demoralizing 28 point loss. Still, don't expect San Antonio to come out and lay an egg. We should certainly expect better games from both Hammon and Young; some of the best competitors in the league.
Perhaps most encouraging, we finally saw a break-out game from both Diana and Cappie that we hadn't seen of late. Although they will almost certainly get their 20+ points each game, they really haven't shot their normal percentage from the floor the past 5-8 games. On Saturday, the two combined for 42 points on 18-28 shooting in only about 24 minutes each. Undeniably, this type of confidence will permeate throughout the entire Mercury team, but most importantly, the two captains - Diana and Cappie.
We also saw a bit more of the human side to the Silver Stars bench, which was held in check by the Mercury's energy and defense. In addition, DeWanna Bonner and Penny Taylor off the bench for Phoenix kept the tempo fast, allowed the Mercury to continue their relentless attack, and energized the Phoenix crowd.
Last, but certainly not least, it's a home game and the X-Factor will be louder than they have all year. After all, it's what the Mercury played all season for. The team is healthy, confident, and will have 10,000+ fans cheering them on. However, as we all know, stranger things have happened than a Silver Stars victory Monday. Hence, the Mercury will need to play with the same type of urgency and intensity that they did on Saturday night. At practice on Sunday, it was clear the team is still all business and just as motivated as we saw on Saturday. Still, it's safe to say the exact same attitude is consumed by San Antonio.
Quite simply, this is the type of basketball we all love.
But, I think we'd all love it a *bit* more with a Mercury win and advancement into the Western Conference Finals.
After the unfortunate let-down that was game 1, the Mercury faced an improbable elimination from the playoffs tonight after one of the best regular seasons in franchise history. However, as we have come to see from this Mercury team throughout the course of the year, they certainly weren't going down without a fight.
And fight they did...
Not that I feel remotely bad for them, but if you're the San Antonio Silver Stars, what do you do when the Mercury compile the following stats?
A 64 point first half, including a 35 point scoring outburst in the 1st quarter
64% shooting from the floor
46 made field goals
56% shooting from beyond the arc
9 made three-pointers
39-20 rebounding edge
24 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists from Diana Taurasi in just 25 minutes of play
16 points, 13 rebounds from DeWanna Bonner off the bench in just 22 minutes of play
Well, honestly, there isn't anything they can do in that situation except...lose...which they did, by a sum of 28 points.
In my previous blog, I stated that the Mercury were poised for a gigantic game 2 - luckily, I was right. There was a clear difference in energy and intensity from the entire Phoenix team tonight that was missing in game 1. "We have a lot of veteran players on our team," Corey Gaines said about the Mercury's response. "They've been in this situation before, whether it's overseas, in college, or in the WNBA. Diana for instance, you knew she was going to come out and have a big game. That's just what she does. Last game she didn't shoot too well, but I knew she was going to shoot well tonight."
Shooting "well" could be the understatement of the century. Taurasi had 20 points in the first half and finished with 24 points on 10-15 shooting in just 25 minutes of play. In typical selfless-Diana fashion, Taurasi deflected individual credit and pointed to the team effort. "We could probably focus on that [her amazing game and the Mercury's offense] but in the locker room we were all talking about how active we were and how much energy we had on the defensive side of the ball," Taurasi said.
Part of the Mercury's ability to put up so many points stemmed from their increase in energy and focus on rebounding. Out-rebounding the Silver Stars 39-20, this allowed the Mercury to get out in transition and push the tempo. "We made shots tonight," said Gaines. "They were missing shots and we rebounded the ball really well. It's as simple as that. Our defense gets better when we are making shots. Everything just gets easier."
Not surprisingly, Silver Stars coach Dan Hughes didn't have a solution to combat the Mercury's offense, and acknowledged there wasn't much San Antonio could do to stop it. "I thought Phoenix did a great job coming out and being the aggressor today," Hughes said after the game. "From an offensive perspective they were extremely aggressive converting shots consistently. Give them credit, they were assertive, and really put us in catch-up mode early in the game."
Gaines affirmed that the Mercury made necessary adjustments tonight, but wouldn't say specifically what. "We made one adjustment," Gaines said. "But I'm not going to tell you what that is." Perhaps the best adjustment they made was on Becky Hammon and not allowing her to get into a rhythm and create for her teammates. Becky had just 13 points and 1 assist tonight. "With Becky in game 1, she really was all over the court and created so much for her teammates," Taurasi said about Hammon tonight. "It's a team effort to stop her and Meek, Cappie, and Ketia did a great job individually."
To the Mercury's credit, they never let the Silver Stars back into the game. Perhaps more so than anything, this should be a huge confidence booster for Phoenix heading into game 3. Earlier in the year, they struggled with letting teams back into games and allowing opposing teams to feel better about facing them in subsequent contests. This was not the case tonight. Once Phoenix got a huge lead, the Silver Stars never got closer than 16 the rest of the game. Quite simply, the Mercury put the Silver Stars away like champions would - never letting up, and staying intense the rest of the game.
Still, this Mercury team isn't (and shouldn't be) content. It would be foolish to expect the Mercury to shoot 64% from the floor and 56% from beyond the arc again on Monday, but there is no reason to think the intensity or determination from this team would be any different."We know San Antonio is going to come and play out of their minds on Monday," said Taurasi. "We expect that from them. That just means we are going to come in and play with the same sense of urgency. Every possession counts. When you go through a game where you value each possession on both sides hopefully at the end of 40 minutes we've won the game."
If that's any indication of how the Mercury will come out Monday night, I'll say it again...
watch out Silver Stars.
*Note: I'll have a full preview of game 3 complete with player quotes Sunday evening.
I think I can safely say I'm not the only Mercury follower that is still mulling the following question around in my head - what just happened?
However, even though it was somewhat of a disappointing and confusing game, I'm still encouraged. There is no doubt in my mind that Phoenix will bounce back in a big way in games 2 and 3.
Honestly, I'm not exactly sure what to feel or think about this game. I'm still trying to comprehend what happened throughout the course of the night and attempting to make sense of it. It wasn't a typical game that we've become accustomed to seeing from the Mercury, but I hesitate in giving too much credit to San Antonio; partly because it's against my nature as a Phoenician, but also because I'm not sure it's fully deserved. "The tempo of the game was in our favor going into halftime despite the 3-point play by the Stars at the end of the half," Corey Gaines said after the game. "Their players were tired and we made our run, which we usually do. They had big shots from players who don't usually hit them. When we were on we were on their heels at the end of the game we turned the ball over. Turnovers will do you in especially with a team of this caliber."
So, instead of recapping the game and analyzing play-by-play, maybe it's better if I address the questions that have inevitably came up in the majority of our minds.
First, I'm sure the immediate initial thought is one of panic, but let's not get too ahead of ourselves. As I mentioned in Part 1 of my series preview, one of the lone keys that would lead to a Silver Stars would be the phenomenal play of their bench or someone other than the normal stars to step up. Personally, with how inconsistent they've been all season, this scenario was the furthest from my mind. I was more worried about Becky Hammon and Sophia Young going off for 20-25 each. Well, they certainly proved me wrong tonight. San Antonio had over 20 bench points led by 11 from Crossley as well as a huge night 16 point game from an unexpected source, Lawson-Wade. "Edwige Lawson-Wade really gave us a solid game," Dan Hughes said. "It was just a good team win. We got good play off the bench in different ways, defensively and offensively. it was just a tough game and luckily we were able to control enough of it in the last two minutes to come away with a victory."
Second, tonight was a rare night for the Mercury's seemingly unstoppable 1-2 punch in Taurasi and Pondexter. They combined for a 9-26 night from the floor and never really got going. Still, the Mercury lost by just 1 point thanks in large part to the play of Penny Taylor (18 points) and DeWanna Bonner (15 points). "We have to be able to learn from this loss and take it back to Phoenix," Penny Taylor said about the game. "We were down the majority of the game. They were able to play good defense on us tonight. Offensively we struggled and we have to make sure to get set in our defense next game. We are down in the series but not out of it."
The offense seemed a bit lethargic throughout the game, as San Antonio would answer every time that Phoenix started making a run. Surprisingly, many of the shots came from an unlikely player like Riley, Wauters, Crossley, or Lawson-Wade. "There are some things that we can look at that we'll have to address for Game 2, but we did have enough periods where I thought our defense gave us a chance to play back at them," Hughes said. "We got some scores out of our offense in the transition, and that starts with your defense and your ability to play out of it."
Last, let's address the play at the very end of the game. With just under 30 seconds left and down by 4, the Mercury didn't foul and let the Silver Stars shot clock run down, taking a chance on their defense. I won't pretend to know more about basketball than Corey Gaines, so I'll just chalk that up to an unfortunate end to a strange start to the playoffs.
So, let's recap...
The Silver Stars shot 46% from the field,
Made 8 three-pointers,
Had more assists,
Less turnovers,
Held Diana and Cappie to just 9 combined field goals,
Played as well as they have all season,
While the Mercury struggled all night...
...and beat the Mercury by a measly 1 point. 1.
This Mercury team, as we've seen all season long, is the most resilient team in the league; they never are out of a game and never give up. I, for one, actually feel encouraged with how poorly the Mercury played and still had a legitimate chance at winning the game - and probably should have! San Antonio played as well as I have seen them play all season and, theoretically, had the opportunity to win by double digits with the way the Mercury played.
There is no quit in this Mercury team, and they'll show it on Saturday night.
This is Part 2 of a two-part series preview. Yesterday, we looked at background for both teams, regular season summaries, and the season match-up between the two teams. Today, we'll look at the keys for each team, head-to-head match-ups, series predictions, and quotes from the team.
Be sure to check back for a full recap, with quotes from both sides, after the game on Thursday. I will be at the viewing party at the Native New Yorker if anyone wants to stop by and say 'hi'!
Keys for Each Team
Silver Stars - They'll win if...
They can do the impossible - slow the Mercury down
They receive career-defining contributions from both Becky Hammon and Sophia Young
Dan Hughes finds a way to utilize his bench, and they come through for the team
Ruth Riley and Ann Wauters outplay the Mercury bench
The Mercury simply don't show up to play (both literally and mentally)
They can somehow force Diana and Cappie away from the ball...the only problem is there are 4 other players who could put up 20 points a night...
Mercury - They'll win if...
They continue to play Phoenix Mercury basketball
They limit their turnovers
Their bench continues to average close to 30 points a night
They match San Antonio's bigs rebound for rebound
They continue to get big games from Cappie and Diana
They move the ball, and play their consistent up-tempo game
Head-to-Head Match-Ups
Becky Hammon vs. Temeka Johnson
Becky has been a consistent threat on both ends of the floor for the entire season. Although they each have very different roles on their respective teams, they are both equally as important to their team's success. Meek is the floor general and constant for the Mercury while Hammon is the legit superstar for the Silver Stars.
Advantage: Silver Stars (but it's closer than you might think)
Edwige Lawson-Wade vs. Diana Taurasi
Not to be mean to Lawson-Wade, but you could replace her name with any other player's name and the result would still be the same Geno Auriemma mantra - "We have Diana Taurasi, and you don't."
Advantage: Mercury
Vickie Johnson vs. Cappie Pondexter
Similar to the Lawson-Wade/Taurasi match-up, Cappie is the most effective player at her position at scoring the ball but also gets her team involved. Vickie is a nice player, but her age is catching up with her and Cappie will certainly exploit that.
Advantage: Mercury
Sophia Young vs. Le'coe Willingham
Sophia Young is one of the most underrated players in the WNBA. However, you could make a similar case for Le'coe and her contributions that go way beyond what shows up in the box score. Still, Young has consistently torched the Mercury the past couple of years in spite of the different defensive combinations thrown at her.
Advantage: Silver Stars
Ann Wauters vs. Tangela Smith
Two very different players - Wauters is more physical while Tangela is more finesse. Yet, they both fit extremely well in their respective roles on each team. In this case, Tangela's experience and ability to hit the three, while fitting seamlessly into the Mercury's system, make her the more valuable asset.
Advantage: Mercury
Intangibles/Bench
No question here - the Mercury have one of the deepest and most effective benches in the league. The additions of DeWanna Bonner, Nicole Ohlde, and Ketia Swanier provided the Mercury will much needed depth and assurance at every position. Penny Taylor can erupt for 25 at anytime, and there is still a solid game from Kelly Mazzante that I think we'll see. The Silver Stars, however, have routinely seen a disorganized bench and have continually asked for more production from players other than Hammon and Young.
Advantage: Mercury
PREDICTION: If the Mercury can steal a win in San Antonio (and I think they will), this series will be over in 2 games. Either way, I see the Merc facing the Sparks in the Western Conference Finals.
Team Thoughts/Quotes:
Coach Corey Gaines
On the team's mindset heading into the playoffs: "I think they're feeling really good. We're healthy so that's good. We're an older team with more veterans and better playoffs so I think everyone is confident."
On preparing any differently: "We'll prepare the same way. We just have to keep playing our up-tempo style and we should be fine."
On utilizing different lineups: "My bench averages close to 30 points and we can attack a lot of different ways on the floor. It should be a great series."
Diana Taurasi
On opening up the series in San Antonio: "It's a little different but it will be great to win and get to come back and close it out at home, it's going to be tough. It's difficult to play a team 2-3 times in a row and it's really the will of a team to get that victory on the road."
On the team's mindset: "We're feeling really good. We have to work on those little things that we always need to, but I think everyone is feeling confident and ready to play."
On preparing any differently: "I never prepare any differently. I always try to stay consistent and go hard all the time and I think the team does as well."
This is Part 1 of a two-part series preview which will conclude with part 2 on Wednesday. The first part will encompass general background information for both teams, team season summaries, and the regular season recap. Part 2 will feature the keys for each team to succeed, head-to-head match-ups, and series predictions.
Part 1 - Background, Season Summaries, Regular Season Series Recap
Background Whenever you hear the words 'Phoenix' and 'San Antonio' in the same sentence in regards to professional basketball, one can't help but feel immediate pain (if you're from Phoenix) or immense joy (if you're from San Antonio). There is simply too much history between the two cities, from a basketball standpoint, that it becomes difficult to ignore the rivalry and implications even from a WNBA perspective. And that's what makes the 1st round match-up so very compelling, and one that that should inspire hope if you're a Mercury fan.
Season Summary - Silver Stars After beating the Sparks in the Western Conference Finals last season, many picked the Silver Stars to either repeat as champions or have an equally impressive season. Unfortunately for San Antonio, the 2009 campaign was more up and down than they would've liked.
Posting just 15-19 record, the Silver Stars struggled to get effective production outside of Becky Hammon and Sophia Young. However, when they do receive a solid contribution from the Ruth Riley's, Belinda Snell's etc. they are certainly a difficult team to contend with.
The problem is, that hasn't been the case for the majority of the season and coach Dan Hughes has struggled to find the right combination off the bench to combat some of the more physical and explosive teams this season - like the Mercury.
Becky Hammon and Sophia Young have been phenomenal as usual. Becky caps the season averaging 19.5 ppg, 5.0 apg - which are good for 2nd and 3rd in the league respectively. When Becky starts to feel it, she's continually shown she is nearly unstoppable as evidenced by her 38 point outburst against the Monarchs in July. She also does a fantastic job of getting her teammates involved averaging 5.0 apg, good for 3rd in the league. Sophia Young has been just as deadly for the Silver Stars this season averaging 18.2 ppg and 6.5 rpg and tallying 29 points or more 4 different times throughout the year.
All in all, in spite of their sub-par record, the Silver Stars are certainly a team the Mercury should not overlook.
Season Summary - Phoenix Mercury The Mercury, on the other hand, surpassed any and all expectations thus far - but they aren't satisfied yet.
After a disappointing 2008 campaign, the Mercury stormed back in 2009 with a league-best record of 23-11. Led by MVP candidates Diana Taurasi and CappiePondexter, Phoenix once again showed the league what an amazing duo they are.
Taurasi captured the scoring championship (again) while shooting 46% from the floor. Cappie had her best all-around season with 19 ppg, 4 rpg, and 5 apg. Perhaps the greatest surprise of the season is the emergence of Rookie of the Year candidate DeWanna Bonner. DB provides so much to this Mercury team that cannot be quantified. She is an imposing presence down low, can score without having plays drawn for her, and is active on the glass - something the Mercury will need to see more from her.
In addition, the acquisitions of Temeka Johnson and Nicole Ohlde have solidified the Mercury as one of the deepest, most effective teams in the league. Penny Taylor is quickly regaining her 2007 form, KetiaSwanier is a huge energy boost off the bench, and Tangela Smith and Le'coeWillingham provide the Mercury with consistency and a solid foundation in the paint (and outside - Tangela led the league in 3 pt%).
Phoenix has not only proven to be an almost unbeatable force offensively, but also has bolstered their defensive presence and have an increased focus on rebounding. They also have proven to the rest of the league that they have multiple ways of beating opponents; no longer is it simply the Diana and Cappie show.
The Regular Season Match-up It's been the tale of the home teams for the Mercury and Silver Stars this season, as each team beat the other twice at home.
In the 1st game, the Mercury went on a shooting burst in the 2nd half to take control of the game. Diana had 25, Cappie had 23, and rookie DeWanna Bonner had a fantastic career start with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Becky Hammon paced the Silver Stars with 20 points and 8 assists.
In their 2nd game, the Mercury never really got rolling offensively and made too many mistakes down the stretch in a 91-87 loss. I actually traveled with the team that road trip, and you can read my recap of the game here.
Game 3 was almost a carbon copy of their first game with the Mercury scoring 95 holding the Silver Stars to just 83. Taurasi erupted for 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists to lead the Mercury while the defense kept Becky Hammon from both scoring and getting her teammates involved. Sophia Young did have 29 points, but the next closest scorer was Ann Wauters with just 12.
Game 4 was a blowout for the Silver Stars, 106-89, in a game that featured the prowess and power of Becky Hammon and Sophia Young when they are darn near unbeatable. Hammon had 21 points and 6 assists while Young had 30 points and 8 rebounds.
It's certainly ironic that each team played so well at home to get the wins. However, come playoff time, it's anyone's game.
Check back Wednesday for Part 2 of the Mercury-Silver Stars preview as we'll talk about the keys for each team, head-to-head match-ups, series predictions, and player quotes!
**Original pos from http://my.wnba.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1800006030**
(Preface: I’m an avid basketball and WNBA fan. This is in general response to some of the comments here, and others I’ve seen while poking around the web. And, this turned out a bit long than I'd planned...)
Remembering leaving the comforts of home and being out on your own for the first time?
The NBA has been named like the “big brother” of the WNBA, but I think been more like a Parent than a Sibling. The NBA has been financially supporting the league and coat tailing the WNBA along these all these years; which probably accounted for a lot of the original heavy marketing and TV exposure. The WNBA needed a lot of support to get it off the ground. It’s a simple hard fact and nothing to be ashamed of. Now, the Parents are pushing the Kid out, making it fend for itself. The WNBA is that kid trying to make it’s own way, but it doesn’t have the same pull, experience, or cold-hard cash to get it down as quickly or easily as when the ‘Rents were involved. The Kid has to work harder, get creative, be resourceful, and just plain push. The adjustment isn’t fun, but it’s necessary and vital.
I see the ever-polarizing ‘Live Access’ a resolute of this transition. Of course this isn’t the ideal situation for the league or the fans, but it’s a plausible substitute while the next phase is worked out. I’d much rather have the option to sit at my computer and watch a live game than have to hope for a highlight on EPSN or watch the Play-by-Play on wnba.com (both of which I have done)
I personally enjoy the ‘Live Access’ (as a temporary substitute) and have had minimal problems using the feature. However, I A) live in the metro-area of Los Angeles B) am relatively computer savvy C) am extremely stubborn Yes, I did experience a few bugs in the beginning, but I was able to remedy those relatively easily by a Help menu or a software update. My biggest complaint with ‘Live Access’ has been not knowing whether or not a game will be archived, and being greatly saddened when I find out a game I wanted to see was streamed yet not archived.
I agree far and well about needing more WNBA games broadcast on TV. It just doesn’t feel the same drink a beer in front of my comp instead of the tube. And “Hey, wanna come over and watch the game on my Mac?” just does not sound inviting. However, I do not feel gearing towards female-specific networks (Lifetime, Oxygen, etc) would really help to up the “respect” level for the league. Personally, I (a female) rarely watch those networks, and don’t feel that would provide the right coverage to continue to establish the WNBA as a legit and respectable league. Take a stroll over and peek at the line-ups on those networks…proposed Summer 2010 lineup?: 6-7pm: Project Runway (Re-run) 7-9pm: WNBA- SAC @ DET 9-9:30pm: Will & Grace 9:30-10pm: Reba 10-11pm: Desperate Housewives Hmmmm…one of these things is not like the other. Nothing against those networks or viewers, I just don't see it as a good fit.
If the WNBA struck up a deal with these networks, would I watch? Yes, but that’s because I love the game and the league. Do I feel it would be a step in the right direction? No. Suggestions- Increased ESPN360.com for non-televised games would allow for great exposure to the sports world. HULU (winterjl), that’s a winner! A bit of a stretch (since they only cover tv/movies currently), but still a winner; great exposure and way to get increased league interest. Or heck, even just create an improved ‘Live Access’ player, with widget-type stats and score ticker (to remedy switching around windows to see how other games are going.)
I LOVE the fact that people are upset and angry. It shows the love and passion that runs deep in the WNBA fans, which is something the league is known for. However, I feel these passionate emotions could be used in a more constructive way. Overall, I think the most important factor in all this, the thing that will stand out the most…
Support the league.
Live near a team- Go to a game. Go to several
Not your favorite team? Go anyways- Depending on the conference you’ll get 1 or 2 games to see your favorite team when they come to town. Then, go see your second favorite team/player when they come to town. If you’re really a fan, you’ll enjoy yourself regardless
Don’t have anyone to go with? Ask around
Still no takers? Go by yourself; make new friends (Bonus: they are already fans!)
Don’t live near a team?- Take a road trip
Road trip not an option?- Sponsor a YMCA or school team from the area, send 11-15 young energetic kids instead. There are very reasonably priced tickets offered, and I’m sure you can work a group discount.
Buy merchandise
Visit WNBA.com, often
Visit your favorite teams’ site, often
Visit the leagues’ sponsors’ websites, often
ESPN/NBA-TV not showing enough WNBA?- Write it, let them know we want more. Twitter play-by-plays to their Twitter page. Be consistent. Contact every relevant source possible. Let these networks (local/national) know there is a demand out there, and its not being met.
Yes, in a perfect world, all levels of women’s athletics would be appreciated and respected on the same level as men’s. Equal coverage, equal pay, equal respect. Welp, I think we all know we’re not in a perfect world, but that wasn’t reason enough to keep this league from reaching what is now its 13th season. This league that has been plagued as an inevitable failure by many since that fatefully first tip-off in June of 97’. The doubters have never been silent in their feelings “Who wants to watch women play professional basketball?” A little trip back in history will show there was that same doubt when the juggernaut now-known-as-the-NBA first began. It had a rocky start, but the NBA came out ok, don’t you think?
This is a complex situation, with sensitive details and kinks. I have no doubt the playmakers of the WNBA (Donna Orender and crew) are not content with the coverage and are looking to improve this. This business of basketball is just that; business. I say let’s all continue the die-hard support, keep up the noise, fill up the seats, buy a shirt, and visit a website or 2. These all speak in volumes to the power-players sitting behind the controls.
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