Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of WNBA awards and the remarkable Phoenix Mercury team! Despite a challenging 15-19 record in the 2019 season, the Mercury's resilience shone through as they secured a playoff spot. However, their journey ended with a blowout loss to the Chicago Sky. Yet, amidst the defeat, DeWanna Bonner's stellar performance with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists was a silver lining.
But here's where it gets interesting! The Mercury's season wasn't just about wins and losses; it was about their impact on the league's award races. And this is the part most people miss...
In the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race, the Mercury had a strong showing with two players in the running. Brittney Griner, the team's leading scorer with an impressive 20.7 points per game, finished a close second. Meanwhile, DeWanna Bonner, with her well-rounded game of 17.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, secured a respectable seventh place.
Now, let's talk about the Rookie of the Year race. While the Mercury didn't have a player in contention, the race featured two exceptional talents: Napheesa Collier, the eventual winner, and Arike Ogunbowale, who finished second. Both players have had memorable battles with the Mercury over the years, showcasing their scoring prowess.
The Defensive Player of the Year award went to Natasha Howard, but the Mercury's Brittney Griner was right there in the mix, tied for fifth place with two other players.
And here's a fun fact: the Mercury's Leilani Mitchell made history by becoming the first player to win multiple Most Improved Player awards. With a comfortable lead over other contenders, Mitchell averaged an impressive 12.8 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds. But wait, there's more! Mitchell's incredible season didn't stop there; she was also a part of the Sportsmanship race, a testament to her character and skills.
The Mercury's 2019 season was a testament to their talent and determination. Despite the ups and downs, their impact on the league was undeniable.
So, what do you think? Was the Mercury's recognition in these award races justified? Don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion!
For more insights into the Mercury's 2019 season and their award race finishes, click the link in our bio!
