Phoenix Mercury Dominates Western Conference in WNBA’s Inaugural Season
The Phoenix Mercury emerged as the top team in the Western Conference during the inaugural season of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) in 1997. Finishing the season with a record of 16-12, the Mercury showcased their strength early on, outpacing their closest rivals, the Los Angeles Sparks, who ended the year at 14-14. The Mercury’s strong performance was notable, particularly as only teams in the Eastern Conference surpassed their record.
In the broader context of the league, the Houston Comets claimed the best overall record at 18-10, closely followed by the New York Liberty at 17-11. The Comets went on to win the WNBA Finals against the Liberty, marking a significant achievement as they secured the league’s first championship. The Mercury, despite their strong regular season, faced a setback in the playoffs when they were eliminated by the Liberty, who won their matchup 59-41.
Strong Performance Against Rivals
The Mercury’s success was particularly evident in their matchups against Western Conference teams. They achieved a commendable 9-3 record against their rivals. This included a convincing win over the Utah Starzz, where the Mercury triumphed 77-55 at the start of the second month of the season. Jennifer Gillom led the team with 21 points, complemented by notable performances from teammates such as Bridget Pettis and Toni Foster.
Despite losing to the Starzz later in the season by a narrow margin of 52-51, the Mercury quickly rebounded with consecutive victories against both the Sparks and the Sacramento Monarchs. Their ability to maintain a strong record against Western Conference teams played a crucial role in their playoff positioning.
As the season progressed, the Mercury demonstrated resilience and skill, solidifying their reputation as a formidable force in the league. This momentum carried them through the regular season and into the playoffs, setting the stage for a competitive future in women’s basketball.
With a focus on teamwork and standout individual performances, the Mercury laid the groundwork for what would become a storied franchise in the WNBA. Fans and analysts alike continue to celebrate the achievements of the 1997 Mercury, marking it as a pivotal moment in the history of women’s sports.
