How A Former Mercury Player Became A Successful Head Coach

The Phoenix Mercury are a historic franchise in the WNBA, being one of the original teams and having won three championships. They have been home to notable players like Diana Taurasi, contributing to their deep legacy in the league.

The team maintains strong ties to various individuals associated with the WNBA, including former players such as Sophie Cunningham, retired players like Cappie Pondexter who started her career with the Mercury, and Kristi Toliver, who now serves on the Mercury's coaching staff despite not playing for them.

In terms of coaching, former Mercury player Noelle Quinn has had a significant career, starting as an assistant coach for the Seattle Storm in 2019, becoming associate head coach, and then taking over as head coach from 2021 until the end of the team's playoff run this season.

Before coaching, Quinn played in the WNBA, beginning her career with the Minnesota Lynx after being drafted in 2007, and later playing for the Los Angeles Sparks, where she had her best season in 2010 averaging 10.2 points, 4 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and a steal. She also spent time with the Washington Mystics and had two stints with the Seattle Storm, winning a championship in 2018, as well as playing for the Phoenix Mercury in 2015 and 2016 with modest statistics.

Currently, Quinn is available for coaching opportunities after her tenure with the Storm ended, joining other coaches like Sandy Brondello who were let go this year. While her time with the Mercury is not frequently highlighted, she remains connected to the franchise.