The Phoenix Mercury concluded the 2022 WNBA season with a record of 15-21, successfully clinching a playoff spot despite a challenging year. This achievement was made possible as other teams, including the Minnesota Lynx and the Los Angeles Sparks, finished with poorer records. However, the Mercury’s playoff journey was short-lived, as they faced a formidable Las Vegas Aces team that swept them in the first round. The Aces’ success continued, ultimately leading them to their first championship after victories over the Seattle Storm and the Connecticut Sun.
The Mercury’s season was marked by significant obstacles, notably the absence of star player Brittney Griner. Griner’s situation cast a long shadow over the team, yet the Mercury sought to bolster their roster by bringing in Tina Charles, an All-Star center. After participating in just 16 games, Charles and the team mutually agreed to a buyout, allowing her to join the Storm in search of a championship opportunity. The previous year, the Mercury had reached the WNBA Finals but fell short against the Chicago Sky, raising expectations for a more successful campaign in 2022.
Despite the setbacks, the Mercury showcased some impressive performances throughout the season, particularly on the offensive end. One of their standout games occurred against the Lynx, where they scored a staggering 107 points but ultimately lost 118-107. In that match, Sophie Cunningham delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 36 points and contributing seven rebounds, five steals, two assists, and a block. Skylar Diggins also played a crucial role, adding 32 points along with 10 assists, six rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. Veteran guard Diana Taurasi added to the scoring with 17 points, seven rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and a steal.
The Mercury achieved notable success in other games as well, including two matches where they scored 99 points. Their first victory at that mark came against the Washington Mystics, where five players scored in double figures, with Diggins leading the charge with 27 points. Later, they secured another decisive win against the Indiana Fever, finishing at 99-78. In this game, the Mercury displayed a balanced attack, with seven players contributing at least 10 points, while Diggins again led the team with 17 points, as well as seven assists, six rebounds, four steals, and a block.
The 2022 season presented numerous challenges for the Phoenix Mercury, but their resilience and offensive prowess allowed them to make their mark, even as they faced setbacks. While the following season saw further regression, the performances exhibited in 2022 provided a foundation for future growth. As the team reflects on the past year, they hold onto the hope of returning to championship contention in the seasons to come.
