Why Phoenix Will Be Involved In Future All-Star Games
The WNBA All-Star Game is a celebration of the league's best players, and the Phoenix Mercury have a rich history of involvement in this prestigious event.
Last year's All-Star Game was a thrilling affair, with Team Collier emerging victorious over Team Clark. The game was a showcase of talent, with Napheesa Collier claiming the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Collier's impressive performance included 36 points and nine rebounds, leading her team to a 151-131 victory. But it wasn't just Collier who shone; six of her teammates also scored in double figures, with Allisha Gray leading the way with 18 points, and Nneka Ogwumike, Kelsey Plum, Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, and Skylar Diggins contributing 16, 15, 13, and 11 points, respectively.
Among these talented players, there were several ties to the Phoenix Mercury. Courtney Williams, drafted by the Mercury in the first round of the 2016 draft, was a key member of Collier's team. She was part of the same draft class as Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Kahleah Copper, all of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the WNBA.
Skylar Diggins, a seven-time All-Star, also has a connection to the Mercury. She played three seasons with the team before joining the Seattle Storm. Diggins made history during the All-Star Game, achieving a triple-double, a remarkable feat in any game.
Another Mercury player, Alyssa Thomas, was a reserve on Team Collier. This was her sixth All-Star appearance, and her first with the Mercury. As time goes on, Thomas will likely become a regular representative of the Mercury in future All-Star Games.
The Mercury's involvement in the All-Star Game extends beyond the players. Sandy Brondello, the coach of Team Clark, was also the coach of the Mercury when they won their third championship. This created a unique connection between the two teams and their respective organizations.
Phoenix has a long and proud history in the All-Star Game, dating back to its inception. Jennifer Gillom and Michele Timms, both former Mercury players, participated in the 1999 All-Star Game, setting the stage for future Mercury players to follow in their footsteps. Since then, the likes of Diana Taurasi, Cappie Pondexter, and Brittney Griner have represented the Mercury in the All-Star Game, further solidifying the team's legacy.
Satou Sabally, another Mercury player, was named a starter for the All-Star Game but unfortunately had to sit out due to an ankle injury. Her replacement, Brionna Jones, filled in admirably, and the team was led by Caitlin Clark, the team captain. Despite Sabally's absence, the Mercury's influence on the game was undeniable.
As the WNBA continues to evolve, the Phoenix Mercury's involvement in the All-Star Game will undoubtedly continue. Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas are carrying on the legacy of the Mercury's past All-Star participants, and the team's rich history in the league suggests that more Mercury players will join them in the future. So, stay tuned for more exciting moments as the Mercury continue to make their mark on the WNBA All-Star Game.
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