When the Phoenix Mercury made a bold move in 2010, trading away star player Cappie Pondexter to the New York Liberty, many fans were left scratching their heads. But here's where it gets controversial: was this trade the key to unlocking Phoenix's success in the 2011 season? In exchange, they acquired Candice Dupree, a player who would quickly prove her worth and become a cornerstone of the team's future triumphs. While Pondexter went on to have a stellar season in New York, averaging career-highs of 21.4 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, Dupree quietly began making her mark in Phoenix.
In her debut season with the Mercury, Dupree posted solid numbers with 15.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and a steal per game. However, it was in the playoffs where she truly shined, averaging an impressive 20.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 assists. This immediate impact set the stage for her pivotal role in the 2011 season. And this is the part most people miss: Dupree's consistency and versatility were exactly what the Mercury needed to elevate their game.
During the 2011 regular season, Dupree continued to deliver, averaging 14.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Her standout performance came in a game against the Washington Mystics, where she scored 27 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out three assists. But she wasn’t alone; Diana Taurasi added 21 points, seven assists, and four rebounds, helping the Mercury secure a win and improve their record to 16-12. This balance of scoring and teamwork was a hallmark of Phoenix's success that year.
The Mercury finished the 2011 season with a 19-15 record, facing tough opponents like the Seattle Storm and Minnesota Lynx in the playoffs. Dupree's best performance came against Seattle, where she scored 29 points, pulled down seven rebounds, blocked three shots, and added an assist in a 92-83 victory. Taurasi, DeWanna Bonner, and Penny Taylor also stepped up, showcasing the team's depth and determination. Despite falling to the Lynx in the next series, Dupree's contributions were undeniable.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: While the 2011 season didn’t end in a championship, it laid the foundation for Dupree’s future success with the Mercury. A few years later, she helped lead the team to another title, solidifying her legacy as one of the franchise’s most legendary players. Her journey with Phoenix ended when she was traded to the Indiana Fever, but her impact remains unforgettable.
So, was Candice Dupree the missing piece in Phoenix's 2011 puzzle? Or was her role overstated? What do you think? Let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow us on X for more in-depth analysis of Candice Dupree’s career and her pivotal 2011 season—click here to stay updated: https://x.com/MercuryOnSI!
