Second Coming

The Phoenix Mercury should write a book on failing forward. The Merc managed to have each of their two worst seasons just in time to draft two of the most highly touted prospects in WNBA history. In 2003, this meant Phoenix got to draft guard Diana Taurasi (who proceeded to...

By Ed Kummerer

May 16, 2013

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The Phoenix Mercury should write a book on failing forward. The Merc managed to have each of their two worst seasons just in time to draft two of the most highly touted prospects in WNBA history. In 2003, this meant Phoenix got to draft guard Diana Taurasi (who proceeded to win the franchise two WNBA titles before she turned 30). In 2013, it means drafting center Brittany Griner.

The former Baylor Bear was dominant enough in college to attract minor interest from the NBA. The addition of Griner in the low post -- and the return of a healthy Penny Taylor -- figure to make the Mercury an instant title contender this season.

You can get your first look at the Griner-era Mercury Sunday, May 19, when they take on the Japanese National Team at US Airways Center.

Sun., May 19, 3 p.m., 2013

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