The Big East Tournament has been a platform for some of the most talented players in women's basketball to shine. Among them, the Phoenix Mercury have had several standout players who have made their mark. In 2001, Diana Taurasi, in her inaugural season, averaged 10.9 points, 3.3 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals, earning her the Most Outstanding Player award. Her performance in UConn's win over Notre Dame, where she made a shot at the buzzer, was a testament to her skill.
Five years later, Ann Strother, another Mercury-tied player, won the award. Her stellar performance in UConn's victory over West Virginia, where she scored 20 points, grabbed seven rebounds, dished out two assists, blocked two shots, and stole the ball once, was a highlight of her career. Strother's best season that year saw her average 13.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and a steal. After her performance, she started her WNBA career with the Mercury, playing eight games with them before moving on to the Indiana Fever and the Atlanta Dream.
Another Mercury player, Charde Houston, won the award in 2012 and 2013. In her first season with the Mercury, she averaged 12.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.3 steals.
Lexi Held, a Mercury-tied player, won the Most Outstanding Player award in 2020. Her 31-point performance in DePaul's 88-74 win over Marquette was a testament to her talent. The Mercury have had some of the most impressive performances in the Big East Tournament, and their players have consistently shined on the court.
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