Over the past few season, the Mercury made some roster changes. They traded a first round pick to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2010 to acquire Cappie Pondexter. Cappie has been a late threat for winning the WNBA MVP. Candice Dupree was added to the already impressive off-ball threat duo. They are now trying to bring Griner home safely.
Griner's friends are trying to get Griner home safely.
Griner's friends are trying to get her back safely, despite a lack information. They are trying contact Griner's family in order to inform them about the situation. Griner is in good mental and physical health but the situation is not ideal.
The American government has been fighting for Griner's return since the beginning of the long-running battle. Griner's privacy was a major concern for many lawmakers.
Mercury traded a first round pick to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2010
In 2010, the Phoenix Mercury traded with the Los Angeles Sparks for Temeka John and Kara Braxton. Johnson was taken by the New York Liberty in the first round of the 2005 WNBA Draft and ended up playing for the Mercury and the Minnesota Lynx. In 2010, the Sparks traded for a pick in their first round. Johnson and Braxton were not the only acquisitions by the Mercury. They also signed Rafaella Masciadri of the Los Angeles Sparks, and LaToya Grundle and Ticha Penicheiro.
The Sparks were searching for a center and received Candace Parker in exchange. Parker is a strong defender who averages 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. Parker will turn 35 in 2020. She was the WNBA's Defensive player of the Year last year.
Diggins-Smith was a late contender for WNBA MVP
Sarah Diggins Smith, who has been an outstanding player in the league's recent years has been the MVP candidate. She is leading the league in assists, minutes played and scoring per match and has kept her team in many games this year. She is a well-respected franchise player who is also well-known off and on the court. Her stellar play has earned her MVP votes and made her an All-Star first team member.
Diggins Smith is currently the league's leader in minutes played. However, she did request a rest during a recent fixture. It's a sign her team needs her full energy to make it to the playoffs. She is still 32 years old and has lots of talent in basketball.
Cunningham was a great off-ball threat
Cunningham has been a solid Off-ball threat for Mercury this Season. Cunningham can not only score but is also an efficient defender as well as a skilled offensive rebounder. Cunningham has contributed to the growth of their offense.
Since Charles' departure, the Mercury have not had a scoring option. Cunningham has shown great leadership in Charles' absence. Curt Meller was pleased with Cunningham’s defensive efforts against the Sun. The team has been using zone defence to make up the difference for their smaller size. They also used bodies on the court when Jones's frontcourt needed a little more.