The Phoenix Mercury: Where Duke's Finest Shine
The Phoenix Mercury, a team synonymous with WNBA success, has a rich history of welcoming talent from some of the most prestigious collegiate programs. But did you know that Duke University has played a significant role in shaping the Mercury's legacy? Let's dive into the fascinating connection between the Blue Devils and the desert heat.
Duke's influence on the WNBA is undeniable, with a staggering 26 players from the university making their mark in the league. The first Blue Devil to grace the WNBA was Michele Van Gorp, a second-round pick back in 1999. This marked the beginning of a trend, with more Duke graduates following in her footsteps, some of whom would eventually don the Mercury uniform.
When we talk about the Mercury and Duke, we're talking about a legacy built on excellence. Alana Beard stands as Duke's all-time leading scorer, having amassed an incredible 2,687 points during her college career. This record still stands as a testament to her skill and dedication.
Monique Currie, another standout scorer, holds the third spot on Duke's all-time scoring list with 2,122 points. Currie's WNBA journey began with the Charlotte Sting, but she later found her way to the Mercury. During her time with Phoenix in 2015, she contributed an average of 8.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.
But here's where it gets controversial... Mistie Bass leads the way in games played for Duke, having appeared in 142 games. Currie, along with Lindsey Harding and Sheana Mosch, are tied for second with 140 games played. This demonstrates the consistency and longevity of these players.
When it comes to assists, Lindsey Harding leads the pack with a total of 579 assists during her college career. Chelsea Gray is second with 545, while Currie is tenth with 413. These numbers highlight the all-around skills of these athletes.
Both Bass and Harding were drafted by the Mercury, though their paths to playing for the team weren't immediate. The Mercury had four picks in 2006, selecting Cappie Pondexter, Liz Shimek, and Bass in the second round. However, Bass was soon traded, beginning her career with the Houston Comets.
Harding's journey took a different turn. She was the No. 1 pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft, selected by Phoenix, but then traded to the Minnesota Lynx. The Mercury went on to win a championship that year, and Harding had a successful rookie season. Both players eventually joined the Mercury years later, with Bass even winning a championship with the team.
The Blue Devils' impact on the WNBA, particularly through players like Bass and Harding, is undeniable. Their contributions are etched in both Duke and Mercury history.
What do you think? Do you agree that Duke's players have significantly impacted the Mercury's success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
