The WNBA’s longest playoff streak of 10 straight seasons has ended.
The Phoenix Mercury will not play postseason hoops for the first time since 2012.
PHX’s matchup with the Wings was indicative of how the season’s gone.
There were some great moments like Brittney Griner’s return, Diana Taurasi’s 10k Day, Phoenix’s All-Star Weekend 2024 announcement, and Nikki Blue’s first win as interim head coach… but ultimately, mid-season changes and injuries seemed to stack the deck against this group.
Similarly, in the Mercury’s game against Dallas on Sunday, it tried to overcome losing yet another player mid-game in Sophie Cunningham (Jaw), but their playoff hopes ended with this shot, that got stuck on the rim:
Phoenix ended up falling to Dallas, 77-74.
Here’s what guard Moriah Jefferson said about Phoenix’s tough road this year:
The loss opens the next phase of the season for the franchise – turning its attention toward the draft.
Last time they missed the playoffs, the Mercury drafted Griner the following year.
This upcoming draft could feature the likes of Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Cameron Brink, and Paige Bueckers.
With that much WNBA-ready talent potentially on the board, are we seeing a repeat of history?
As Diana Taurasi, and the city of Phoenix, prepare for the final years of her career – there’s a chance this losing season leads to the next chapter of Mercury basketball.
Eliav Gabay
