The 2004 WNBA season was a turning point for the Phoenix Mercury, and it all started with a bold move that reshaped their future. Coming off a disappointing 2003 season, the Mercury found themselves in a unique position to rebuild—and they seized it with both hands. Thanks to their poor performance the previous year, they secured two major draft picks, setting the stage for a dramatic turnaround.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league's original teams, folded, leading to a dispersal draft. This wasn't the first time the WNBA had seen teams disband—the Miami Sol and Portland Fire had folded the year before—but the Rockers' demise gave the Mercury a golden opportunity. With the first pick in the dispersal draft, they selected Penny Taylor, who quickly became a cornerstone of the franchise. Was this the right move? Some argue that relying on draft picks from folded teams isn't a sustainable strategy, but for Phoenix, it was a game-changer.
And this is the part most people miss: the Mercury didn't stop there. They also landed the first pick in the 2004 WNBA Draft, selecting Diana Taurasi, a player who would go on to become the league's all-time leading scorer. Taurasi's impact was immediate, averaging 17.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.3 steals in her rookie season. While she didn't win the MVP award—that went to Lisa Leslie—she did take home the Rookie of the Year title, cementing her status as a rising star.
The Mercury's success wasn't limited to Taurasi. Penny Taylor and Plenette Pierson were also in the running for the Most Improved Player award, though Kelly Miller and Wendy Palmer ultimately shared the honor. Even head coach Carrie Graf received recognition in the Coach of the Year race. This raises a thought-provoking question: Can a team truly rebuild in just one season? The Mercury's 2004 campaign suggests it's possible, but is it replicable?
By the end of the season, the Mercury had transformed from a struggling team to a 17-17 contender, laying the foundation for their championship just a few years later. Their story is a testament to the power of strategic drafting and player development. But here’s a counterpoint to consider: Did the Mercury simply get lucky, or was their success the result of meticulous planning? Let us know what you think in the comments!
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