The Phoenix Mercury's early years were a rollercoaster of talent acquisition, but some of their most intriguing picks came in the later rounds—players who either flew under the radar or sparked unexpected journeys. Founded in 1997, the team began shaping its identity through a mix of allocations and drafts, laying the groundwork for what would become a storied franchise. During the allocation period, they secured veterans Jennifer Gillom and Michele Timms, followed by the additions of Bridget Pettis and Nancy Lieberman, setting the stage for their inaugural season.
In the 1997 WNBA Draft, Phoenix had four picks, starting with Toni Foster as their first selection. They followed this by drafting Tia Jackson in the second round, Umeki Webb in the third, and Monique Ambers in the fourth. Webb’s story is particularly fascinating—she spent two seasons with the Mercury, averaging 5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.4 steals in her rookie year, before being waived and later joining the Miami Sol in 2000. Her journey highlights the unpredictability of draft picks and the second chances that can redefine a player’s career.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Mercury’s 1998 third-round pick, Brandy Reed, became a standout player, but her path to success wasn’t linear. After averaging 5.2 points in her first season, Reed was selected by the Minnesota Lynx in an expansion draft, where she exploded onto the scene with 16.1 points per game. Traded back to Phoenix, she reached new heights, averaging a career-best 19.0 points, earning All-Star honors, and becoming the franchise’s third All-Star. Was Reed’s success a result of her talent, or did the Lynx’s system unlock her potential? It’s a question that still sparks debate among WNBA fans.
The following year, Phoenix drafted Lisa Harrison in the third round, who became a reliable contributor. Her best season came in 2002, when she averaged 8.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. While Harrison’s career wasn’t as flashy as Reed’s, her consistency underscores the value of late-round picks who become solid role players.
And this is the part most people miss: not every draft pick pans out, even for a team as savvy as the Mercury. In 2000, they selected Tauja Catchings, a standout in college with averages of 12.3 points and 6.8 rebounds, but she never suited up for Phoenix. Similarly, their 2001 third-round pick, Tere Williams, also didn’t make the roster. Does this mean the scouting missed the mark, or were there factors behind the scenes that influenced these outcomes? It’s a reminder that drafting is as much an art as it is a science.
Drafting is indeed a complex process, but when a team does its homework, it can uncover hidden gems that shape its legacy. The Phoenix Mercury’s late picks—from Webb’s resilience to Reed’s meteoric rise—tell a story of potential, opportunity, and the unpredictability of sports. What’s your take? Do late-round picks deserve more credit, or is it all about the system they land in? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more deep dives into Phoenix’s draft history and the stories behind these players, follow us on X by clicking here!
