The Phoenix Mercury's 2000 season was a remarkable turnaround, with the team securing their first 20-win season and a playoff spot. This success can be largely attributed to their exceptional facilitators, who played a pivotal role in the team's comeback. Cheryl Miller, the coach who guided them to this achievement, led the Mercury to their third playoff appearance in four years. But it was the passing game that truly set them apart, with Brandy Reed and Michelle Cleary leading the charge. Reed, the team's leader, had an impressive 86 assists that season, with her highest single-game total of eight assists coming against the Detroit Shock. This was nearly a triple-double, showcasing her all-around impact. But it wasn't just Reed who stood out; Phoenix had four players with double-digit assists, including Michelle Brogan, Tonya Edwards, Lisa Harrison, and Michelle Cleary. Cleary, in particular, had a standout season, with 77 assists and a career-high 12 assists against the Utah Starzz. Her playmaking abilities were crucial, as she dished the ball to teammates like Reed, who scored 31 points in one game. Edwards, the next-best facilitator, had 58 assists, with her best game coming against the Shock, the same game where Reed had her season-high. Brogan and Pettis, the fourth and fifth best facilitators, respectively, had 49 and 46 assists, with Pettis tying her career high against the Minnesota Lynx. The Mercury's passing game was a key factor in their success, with a total of 465 assists for the season. This not only helped them secure the playoffs but also highlighted the team's ability to work together and execute their game plan effectively. So, while Miller's coaching and the team's overall performance were significant, it was the facilitators who truly made the Mercury's 2000 season so special. And this is the part most people miss: the passing game was the secret weapon that propelled them to success. But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that the Mercury's success was more about individual talent than team play. However, the team's ability to work together and execute their game plan effectively was a key factor in their success. So, what do you think? Do you agree that the passing game was the secret weapon that propelled the Mercury to success? Or do you have a different interpretation? Let us know in the comments!
