The Big East Tournament has been a stage for basketball stars to showcase their brilliance, and the Phoenix Mercury has had its fair share of representatives making an impact. But the story of Mercury's involvement in this tournament is not just about the wins and losses; it's about the players who left their mark on the court.
The Tournament's Early Days:
The Big East Tournament's inaugural year was 1983, and the championship game saw St. John's triumph over Providence with a score of 74-63. Debbie Beckford, the Most Outstanding Player (MOP) of the tournament, led her team to victory. This award, now known as the Most Valuable Player (MVP), has been a testament to individual excellence.
UConn's Dominance:
Fast forward to 1994, and Rebecca Lobo claimed the MOP award, becoming the third UConn player to do so. This marked the beginning of a remarkable era for UConn, as they went on to dominate the tournament. For eight consecutive years, a UConn player took home the MOP award, a feat that speaks volumes about the program's strength.
Enter Diana Taurasi:
But here's where the Mercury connection truly shines. In 2001, Diana Taurasi, a future Mercury star, won the MOP award as a UConn player. In a thrilling game against Notre Dame, UConn clinched a 78-76 victory with a buzzer-beater by Sue Bird. Taurasi, in her freshman year, averaged an impressive 10.9 points, 3.3 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals. This performance set the tone for her illustrious career.
Mercury's Rising Stars:
The Mercury's association with the Big East Tournament continued. In 2006, Ann Strother, who would later play for the Mercury, led UConn to victory against West Virginia. Strother's all-around performance included 20 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal. And the Mercury's presence didn't stop there. In 2012 and 2013, Charde Houston, a Mercury player, helped UConn defeat Louisville. Houston's debut season with the Mercury showcased her talent, averaging 12.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.3 steals.
A Recent Triumph:
And this is the part most people might not know—the Mercury's influence extended further. In 2020, Lexi Held, with ties to the Mercury, won the MOP award, leading DePaul to an 88-74 victory over Marquette. Held's 31 points were a testament to her skill and the Mercury's ability to attract and develop top talent.
The Phoenix Mercury's journey through the Big East Tournament is a testament to the organization's scouting and player development. These players didn't just represent the Mercury; they embodied the spirit of the tournament, leaving their mark on its history.
Follow us to explore more about these remarkable athletes and their Big East journeys. The Mercury's impact on the tournament is a story worth telling, and these players deserve the spotlight.
