In 2004, the Phoenix Mercury made a pivotal move that would change the trajectory of their franchise. After concluding the previous season with a disappointing record of 8-26, fortune smiled on them when they won the lottery for the first overall pick in the draft. This momentous occasion allowed them to select none other than the exceptional Diana Taurasi, a standout player from the University of Connecticut.
During her illustrious college career at UConn, Taurasi played a crucial role in leading the team to three national championships. Notably, she helped her squad triumph over Oklahoma in her sophomore year and secured victories against Tennessee in her final two seasons. Over her tenure with the Huskies, she showcased her remarkable skills, averaging an impressive 15.0 points, 4.5 assists, 4.4 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and even contributing a block per game.
The addition of Taurasi was a game-changer for the Mercury, especially as they had previously brought in Penny Taylor earlier that year, signaling a renaissance within the team. Taurasi's rookie season was nothing short of stellar; she not only won the Rookie of the Year award but also earned a spot on the All-WNBA First Team, firmly establishing herself as a rising star.
As Taurasi embarked on her professional journey, it was clear that this was just the beginning. Her career in Phoenix became legendary, and she remained with the franchise throughout her entire time in the WNBA, building an enduring legacy.
One of her most memorable performances occurred in 2006 during a monumental clash against the Houston Comets, where she scored a staggering 47 points in a thrilling triple-overtime match. The Mercury emerged victorious with a nail-biting score of 111-110, and Taurasi was one of four players contributing double-digit points in that nail-biter.
Beyond Taurasi, the Mercury's draft strategy included three additional selections. They chose Chandi Jones later in the first round but traded her to the Detroit Shock before she ever played a game for Phoenix. In her rookie season with the Shock, she participated in 21 games before being traded to the Minnesota Lynx, where she enjoyed a career-high of 17 points in a game against the Comets, alongside six assists, five rebounds, and a steal, showcasing her versatility.
The Mercury also made a second-round selection, choosing Ashley Robinson. Robinson spent two years with the team before being selected by the Chicago Sky in an expansion draft. She later played for the Seattle Storm, achieving a personal best of 14 points in a game despite the team's loss, and also contributed ten rebounds, demonstrating her all-around capabilities.
Lastly, in the third round, Phoenix selected Maria Villarroel, who was subsequently traded to the Houston Comets. However, her journey took her overseas instead of playing in the WNBA.
Diana Taurasi's career with the Mercury is a testament to her talent and dedication, while the other players from that draft may have had varying paths, some still found opportunities to make their marks in the league.
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