Few events in sports are as captivating as a team redefining its destiny through the power of strong leadership from its starting lineup. And this is precisely what the Phoenix Mercury achieved in 2007—transforming their fortunes and setting a new standard for excellence in the league. But here's where it gets controversial: what played a bigger role—the star power of individual players or the cohesive energy of the starting five? Let's dive into how Phoenix's starting lineup ignited their historic season, and why this approach remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts alike.
In 2007, the Phoenix Mercury snapped a seven-year playoff drought, earning their first postseason appearance since 2000. This remarkable turnaround was fueled by strategic acquisitions of talented players like Penny Taylor, Diana Taurasi, and Cappie Pondexter—each bringing unique skills and leadership qualities. Their combined effort laid the foundation for a team that made WNBA history.
The Mercury concluded that season with an impressive 23-11 record, showcasing the impact of their determined roster. Their playoff journey saw victories over powerhouse teams such as the Seattle Storm, San Antonio Silver Stars, and Detroit Shock—each win building momentum and confidence.
The season's opening game set the tone—they defeated the Silver Stars with a score of 81-72. Diana Taurasi led the charge, scoring 20 points along with six rebounds, four assists, and a steal, demonstrating her role as a team leader. Tangela Smith contributed 17 points, with three rebounds and assists, while Kelly Miller added 15 points, six assists, four rebounds, and four steals—highlighting the balanced and disciplined effort from the starters.
Throughout that game, the starting five—including Taurasi, Smith, Miller, Pondexter, and Taylor—each played pivotal roles, with three of them scoring in double figures. This consistency set a strong precedent for the team’s future matches.
However, their next game against the Seattle Storm revealed the unpredictable nature of sports. Pondexter emerged as the star, pouring in 31 points with five assists and a steal, but the Mercury couldn't secure the win. Taurasi scored 14 points, and Taylor added 10, showing the collective effort even in defeat. Notably, the team kept the same starting lineup, emphasizing strategic stability.
In subsequent matchups, Taurasi demonstrated her scoring prowess with a staggering 37 points against the Houston Comets, supported by Pondexter’s 22 points and Taylor’s 18. This trio’s dominance propelled Phoenix to a second victory, fueling their confidence and continuity.
Their momentum culminated in a tight, balanced win over the Sacramento Monarchs, where four starters scored at least 10 points. The consistent performance of these key players underscored how the starting lineup’s synergy elevated the team to become the top performers in the Western Conference.
Why does this matter? Because the 2007 Phoenix Mercury season exemplifies the critical importance of a well-coordinated starting five. Star power alone isn't enough; teamwork, strategic consistency, and leadership from key players can make all the difference—an idea that sparks ongoing debate. Did Phoenix’s success stem from individual brilliance or the relentless unity of their starters?
To discover more about how these legendary players shaped the 2007 Mercury team, follow us on X at MercuryOnSI. Join the conversation and share your thoughts—do you believe in the power of a cohesive starting lineup, or does individual star talent carry teams to victory? The debate continues, and your opinion matters.
