Phoenix Mercury Star Recognized for Standout Season

Jennifer Gillom's impressive campaign set the tone for the franchise's future success.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 3:55pm

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The Phoenix Mercury had a breakthrough season in 1998, finishing second in the Western Conference with a 19-11 record. Despite falling short in the WNBA Finals, the team's star player Jennifer Gillom was recognized for her outstanding individual performance, finishing second in MVP voting and earning a spot on the All-WNBA First Team.

Why it matters

The Mercury's 1998 season marked a significant milestone for the franchise, establishing them as a rising power in the WNBA. Gillom's recognition as one of the league's elite players helped cement the team's status and paved the way for future stars like Diana Taurasi to lead the Mercury to championship success.

The details

Led by Gillom's 20.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.4 assists per game, the Mercury finished second in the Western Conference behind the dominant Houston Comets. Gillom's standout performance included helping the Mercury hand the Comets their first loss of the season. While the Comets went on to win their second WNBA title, the Mercury's historic Finals appearance set the stage for the franchise's future.

  • The Mercury finished the 1997 season with a 16-12 record.
  • In 1998, the Mercury improved to 19-11 and reached the WNBA Finals.
  • Cynthia Cooper of the Houston Comets won the 1998 MVP award, with Gillom finishing second in the voting.
  • Gillom was named to the 1998 All-WNBA First Team.
  • Gillom won the WNBA Sportsmanship Award a few years later, becoming the first Mercury player to do so.

The players

Jennifer Gillom

A star forward for the Phoenix Mercury who had a standout 1998 season, finishing second in MVP voting and earning a spot on the All-WNBA First Team.

Cynthia Cooper

The Houston Comets star who won the 1998 MVP award, leading her team to their second WNBA championship.

Bridget Pettis

A key contributor for the Phoenix Mercury, helping the team hand the defending champion Houston Comets their first loss of the 1998 season.

Toni Foster

A Mercury player who scored in double figures alongside Gillom and Pettis in the team's win over the Comets.

Suzie McConnell-Serio

The player who won the 1998 WNBA Sportsmanship Award, finishing ahead of Gillom who placed fourth in the voting.

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What’s next

The Mercury will look to build on their 1998 Finals appearance and continue their rise as a WNBA powerhouse in the coming seasons.

The takeaway

Jennifer Gillom's standout 1998 campaign helped establish the Phoenix Mercury as a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA, paving the way for the franchise's future success and the emergence of stars like Diana Taurasi.