The Phoenix Mercury have a rich history of drafting and developing talent, but what’s often overlooked is the deep connection between the team and players from powerhouse programs like UConn and North Carolina. Let’s dive into how stars like LaToya Sanders and others have ties to the Mercury, and explore the stories that make these connections so fascinating.
First, let’s talk about UConn, a program synonymous with women’s basketball excellence. The Mercury’s most iconic player, Diana Taurasi, is a UConn alum who helped the Huskies win three national championships. Her transition to the WNBA not only solidified her status as a legend but also brought historic success to Phoenix. But here’s where it gets controversial: While Taurasi’s impact is undeniable, some argue that the Mercury’s reliance on UConn players overshadows contributions from other programs. What do you think? Is the UConn pipeline a strength or a limitation for the team?
Now, let’s shift focus to North Carolina, another basketball powerhouse with strong ties to the Mercury. Tracy Reid, the first Tar Heel to play in the WNBA, set the stage for future players. In her final college season, she averaged an impressive 20.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1 assist. Drafted by the Charlotte Sting, she later joined the Mercury after stints with the Miami Sol. And this is the part most people miss: Reid’s journey wasn’t just about stats—she paved the way for players like Charlotte Smith, who became the second North Carolina player in the league. Smith’s career took her from the Sting to the Washington Mystics and Indiana Fever before she, too, joined the Mercury.
Fast forward to 2008, when LaToya Sanders, another North Carolina alum, was drafted by Phoenix. Her single season with the Mercury saw her average 4.4 points and 3.5 rebounds, but her career extended to teams like the Minnesota Lynx and Los Angeles Sparks. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Do players like Sanders, who have shorter stints with a team, still leave a lasting impact? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The Mercury’s draft history is also filled with intriguing stories. In 2003, they selected Marion Jones in the third round, though she never played for Phoenix. Years later, she joined the Tulsa Shock. Similarly, Jessica Breland, another North Carolina player, was traded to the Mercury in 2020 but didn’t suit up for them. But here’s the bigger picture: North Carolina has produced 20 WNBA players, and this pipeline shows no signs of slowing down.
From UConn’s dominance to North Carolina’s steady stream of talent, the Mercury’s connections to these programs are undeniable. What’s your take on these ties? Do they strengthen the team’s legacy, or is there room for more diversity in their player recruitment? Let us know in the comments below!
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