The 1998 Phoenix Mercury season was a legendary chapter in WNBA history, and it all started with a bang! The team's inaugural season was a success story, as they finished with a solid record of 16-12, securing a playoff spot alongside three other teams. But here's where it gets controversial... despite their impressive record, the Mercury faced an early exit in the playoffs, losing to the New York Liberty in the first round. However, this setback only fueled their fire for the following year.
In 1999, the Mercury returned with a vengeance, improving their record to an impressive 19-11. Their first playoff matchup was against the Cleveland Rockers, and it was a thrilling series. The Mercury took the lead in the series with a 2-1 victory, winning the first and third games. Jennifer Gillom, the leading scorer, put up an incredible performance with 21 points, 5 rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Michelle Timms and Michelle Brogan also contributed significantly to the win.
The series against Cleveland was a back-and-forth battle. The Rockers fought hard and took the second game, but the Mercury bounced back with a dominant 71-60 victory in the third game. Bridget Pettis stepped up and led the team to victory with an outstanding performance, scoring 27 points and contributing in multiple other categories. Brogan and Gillom also had notable performances, showcasing their versatility.
The Mercury's wins in this series were not just any ordinary victories; they were a testament to the team's resilience and talent. This led them to the WNBA Finals, a historic moment for the franchise as it was their first-ever Finals appearance. Fast forward to the present, and the Mercury have made it to the Finals five more times, a remarkable achievement.
In the 1998 WNBA Finals, the Mercury faced the Houston Comets, and despite a strong start, winning the first game, they ultimately lost the series. The Comets claimed their second championship, but the Mercury's performance that year left an indelible mark on the league.
Overall, the 1998 Mercury season was a testament to the team's potential and determination. With a winning percentage of 63.3% in the regular season, it was the franchise's fourth-best performance, and the only seasons with higher percentages were their championship-winning years. The 1998 team was a special group, and Gillom and her teammates showed that Phoenix had what it took to win it all. Although they experienced a playoff drought a few years later, the foundation was laid for future success.
So, what do you think? Was the 1998 Mercury team a true legend in the making? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments! For more insights into the Mercury's journey, follow us on X and click right here to explore their incredible story!
