The 2014 Season: Phoenix's Triumph and the Rise of Brittney Griner
The 2014 season was a pivotal moment in the history of the Phoenix Mercury, marking a significant turnaround from their disappointing 2012 campaign. After a historic low point, the team was determined to turn things around, and they did so with a stellar performance that led to their third championship.
The turning point came with the selection of Brittney Griner in the 2013 WNBA Draft. Griner's impact was immediate, as she helped the Mercury return to the playoffs in her rookie season, finishing with a strong 19-15 record. However, it was in her second season that Griner truly took the team to new heights.
Under the guidance of new head coach Sandy Brondello, the Mercury had a breakthrough year. Their hard work and dedication paid off, resulting in a franchise-best performance. Phoenix became an unstoppable force, and it was no surprise that their stars were in the running for various awards.
The team's success was highlighted by their involvement in the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race. Diana Taurasi, a veteran player, finished second with two first-place votes and 242 points. Maya Moore, on the other hand, won the MVP award, achieving a career-high in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. Moore's Minnesota Lynx also had a remarkable season, finishing with a 25-9 record.
Taurasi's performance was impressive, averaging 16.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.8 rebounds. Her standout game was against the Los Angeles Sparks, where she scored 32 points, demonstrating the Mercury's offensive prowess. All starters contributed, scoring in double figures, showcasing the team's depth and balance.
Brittney Griner also made her mark in the MVP race, receiving one first-place vote and accumulating 67 points. While she finished fifth, Griner's impact was recognized in other categories. She won the Defensive Player of the Year award with 31 points, solidifying her defensive prowess. Sancho Lyttle finished second in this category with four points, followed by Jessica Breland, Angel McCoughtry, and Maya Moore.
Griner's impact extended beyond the MVP race. She was also in the running for the Most Improved Player award, which was won by Skylar Diggins. Diggins averaged a career-high 20.1 points, five assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals, further highlighting the team's depth and talent.
The Mercury's success continued with additional award nominations. Penny Taylor was tied for third in the Sportsmanship Award race, and Sandy Brondello was named Coach of the Year, further cementing the team's achievements.
In the end, the 2014 season was a testament to the Phoenix Mercury's resilience and talent. They won another championship, solidifying their place in WNBA history. This remarkable season showcased the team's ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness, leaving a lasting impact on the league.
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