Why Mercury Legend Taurasi's Presence Helped Team USA

The 2024 Olympics featured some of the WNBA's best players, and while younger talent led the way, there were veterans who helped guide them to success. The Phoenix Mercury had ties to the 2024 U.S. team, as Kahleah Copper and Diana Taurasi were in action. Brittney Griner was also involved, and she was still playing for the Mercury at that time. Alyssa Thomas was involved, but she was playing for the Connecticut Sun at that time. Taurasi began her Olympic journey back in 2004. That was a big year for the Mercury guard, as she helped the UConn Huskies win their third championship in a row. Then, she was the first pick of the 2004 WNBA Draft, and she later won Rookie of the Year. Phoenix's new star helped Team USA win gold, and after that, she remained one of their most important players. The 2024 Olympics would be her last appearance, and while she played fewer minutes, her presence was valuable. In USA's game against Japan, Taurasi played 15 minutes. She had three rebounds in that game, and she scored two poi