Why The Mercury Were Recognized Despite Their Struggles

The Phoenix Mercury missed the playoffs in 2001, which was the second time in franchise history. The Mercury missed the playoffs for the first time in 1999, and they finished that season with a record of 15-17. Phoenix's 2001 season was a different story, and the team finished 13-19. It was the start of a rebuilding period for the Mercury, and it would be a few years before they returned to the playoffs. The Mercury strugged in 2001, but there were some positives. Some of their players were recognized, and they were involved in award races. While none of them won, they had solid seasons and their efforts did not go unnoticed. Looking at the award races, the Mercury were tied to the Defensive Player of the Year, the Most Improved Player and the Sportsmanship Award. Lisa Harrison was involved in the Defensive Player of the Year race, and she earned a point. She was tied with Allison Feaster, Taj McWilliams-Franklin, DeLisha Milton-Jones and Teresa Weatherspoon. Debbie Black won the award, and she received 22 p