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.
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
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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.
History of the Mercury
The Phoenix Mercury, home to some of the WNBA's greatest players, is one of the most successful teams in the league. Founded in 1997, they have been a powerhouse for over two decades and are currently four-time champions. With an impressive record of nine playoff appearances, seven Western Conference titles, and three championships (2007, 2009, 2014), it’s no wonder why fans worldwide consider them one of the best teams in women’s professional basketball.
Led by legendary head coach Paul Westhead since 2007 and powered by stars like Diana Taurasi—the all-time leading scorer—and Brittney Griner—the league leader in blocks per game—the Phoenix Mercury has consistently been at or near the top of their conference standings year after year. They also boast some impressive numbers on offense: they led all WNBA teams with 22 wins during their championship season back in 2009; from 2006 to 2011, they averaged more than 80 points per game; and overall have scored more than 10 thousand total points since joining forces with USA Basketball before 2008 Olympics Games!
As a fan-favorite team that never fails to put on an exciting show each time out on the court - winning games or thrilling crowds - you can always count on seeing something special when watching your beloved Phoenix Mercury play ball! Whether you're cheering them from home or attending live games at Talking Stick Resort Arena – there's nothing quite like being part of this historic franchise as it continues its storied run through history books!
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history