The Phoenix Mercury history reflects a legacy of excellence in women’s basketball. Founded in 1997, Phoenix Mercury basketball has grown into one of the league’s most celebrated teams. Known for championship runs, dynamic players, and passionate fans, the franchise continues to shape the WNBA landscape while inspiring new generations of athletes across the country.
Established
1997
City
Phoenix
League History
1997 – Present / Women’s National Basketball Association
Team History
1997 – Present / Phoenix Mercury
Nickname
Mercury – The Phoenix Mercury of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has some exciting origins regarding their nickname. The name “Mercury” was chosen in 1997, shortly after the team was formed as an expansion franchise in the WNBA. It is derived from Roman mythology and honors a legendary figure: Hermes or Mercury, who served as a messenger between gods and humans.
In Greek mythology, Hermes is known for his speed—which makes sense considering that basketball requires fast-paced action on both sides of the court! This connection inspired team officials to choose this moniker for their new franchise; they wanted something that would capture their athleticism and reflect a powerful image of strength and agility.
Phoenix Mercury Origin
The official mascot of Phoenix Mercury is Scorch, which further reflects its namesake's association with heat and fire—the perfect representation for an Arizona-based sports team! In addition to Scorch himself (a yellow dragon), there are two other mascots: Sparky (a fiery phoenix) & Blaze (an orange tiger). Artist Jerry Reynolds designed all three at Red Dog Design Inc., who created them specifically for use by Phoenix Mercury during games or promotional events around town.
Aside from being visually appealing characters representing one of America's top women's professional basketball teams, these mascots embody all that embodies what it means to be part of such a unique organization: determination; passion; courage; resilience...all traits needed when competing at any level - especially on the center court under bright lights! So next time you're cheering on your favorite players while wearing your favorite jersey - remember where those colors come from – right out of scorching hot Arizona sunsets!
Championship
WNBA Championships 3
2014, 2009, 2007
Arena
2020 - Present / Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum
1997 – 2019 / Talking Stick Resort Arena
Owner
2004 – Present / Robert Sarver
1997 – 2003 / Jerry Colangelo
- 1997
- 2007
- 2009
- 2014
Mercury Team Creation
On April 24, 1996, women’s basketball announced “We Got Next” as the NBA Board of Governors approved the concept of a Women’s National Basketball Association and play began the next June. Take a look at how the WNBA has evolved from those beginnings through the league’s seven years of existence. Eight teams were announced for the league’s inaugural season. The ...
2007 WNBA Champions
The 2007 WNBA season officially ended on September 16 when the Phoenix Mercury won the season WNBA Championship. The Mercury defeated the Detroit Shock 3 games to 2. Mercury guard Cappie Pondexter was named Finals MVP.-
2009 WNBA Champs
The 2009 WNBA Finals was the championship series of the 2009 WNBA season and the conclusion of the season’s playoffs. The Indiana Fever, top-seeded champions of the Eastern Conference, faced the Phoenix Mercury, top-seeded champions of the Western Conference. The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Indiana Fever 3 games to 2 to win their second WNBA Finals title. The Fever made ... -
2014 WNBA Champs – Mercury
The 2014 WNBA Finals was the playoff series for the 2014 season of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), and the conclusion of the season’s playoffs. The Phoenix Mercury, champions of the Western Conference, faced the Chicago Sky, champions of the Eastern Conference. The WNBA Finals were under a 2–2–1 rotation. The Mercury held the home-court advantage as they had ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Phoenix Mercury History
The Phoenix Mercury history began in 1997 when they became one of the original eight franchises of the WNBA. From the outset, Phoenix Mercury basketball was built on bold plays, strong personalities, and star power. Cheryl Miller was named the team’s first head coach and general manager, setting a standard that would define the Phoenix Mercury history for decades ahead.
Early success came quickly. Under Miller, the Mercury made playoff appearances in 1997 and 1998, and reached the 1998 WNBA Finals. Despite losing that Finals to the Houston Comets, those early seasons entrenched Phoenix Mercury basketball in fans’ hearts.
Over the next several years, Phoenix faced ups and downs, including a decline in the early 2000s. The drafting of Diana Taurasi in 2004 started a new era. Her arrival, along with later addition of Brittney Griner and other impactful players, reinvigorated Phoenix Mercury history and raised the level of Phoenix Mercury basketball across the league.
Under coach Paul Westhead, the Mercury won their first WNBA Championship in 2007. This was followed by another title in 2009, and yet another in 2014. These championship seasons stand as major pillars in Phoenix Mercury history and highlight the strength of Phoenix Mercury basketball at its best.
Throughout their history, Phoenix has also enjoyed many star players. Diana Taurasi, known for her scoring and leadership, became the league’s all-time leading scorer. Brittney Griner has dominated at the rim with shot-blocking and interior scoring. Veteran role players and emerging talents alike have shaped Phoenix Mercury basketball, giving depth and stability to the franchise.
Mercury Achievements
Among the biggest highlights in Phoenix Mercury history are their three WNBA Championships—2007, 2009, and 2014. These titles mark periods when Phoenix Mercury basketball excelled not just in playoff intensity but in regular-season dominance, offense, defense, teamwork, and coaching. The 2014 championship season, in particular, saw them set high marks in wins and style of play.
Beyond championships, the Phoenix Mercury history includes a strong record of playoff appearances (18 as of recent seasons), multiple Finals appearances, and many individual honors. Players like Diana Taurasi have accumulated MVP awards, all-star selections, and scoring records. The franchise has also impacted the culture of the WNBA by engaging fans, promoting women’s basketball, and setting benchmarks in both performance and professionalism. These are the pillars of Phoenix Mercury basketball that continue to inspire fans and future players alike.
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history