Nancy Lieberman, often hailed as a pioneering force in women’s basketball, etched her name into the annals of WNBA history as one of the original players for the Phoenix Mercury. Her illustrious career spanned decades, transcending playing and coaching, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire. Lieberman’s association with the Phoenix Mercury, though brief as a player, solidified her place as a foundational figure for the franchise and the league.
The inception of the Women’s National Basketball Association in 1997 marked a watershed moment for professional women’s sports. The Phoenix Mercury stood among the league’s inaugural eight teams, alongside iconic franchises like the Houston Comets, New York Liberty, and Los Angeles Sparks, collectively laying the groundwork for what would become a global phenomenon. These early teams navigated uncharted territory, building rosters and fan bases from the ground up.
To assemble their initial squads, the original WNBA teams employed a distinctive allocation and draft system. The Phoenix Mercury strategically acquired talent, notably securing Jennifer Gillom through allocation. Their efforts in the 1997 WNBA Draft further bolstered the team with promising prospects such as Toni Foster, Tia Jackson, Umeki Webb, and Monique Ambers, shaping the Mercury’s inaugural competitive identity.
Amidst these foundational drafts, the Mercury also participated in the Elite Draft, a pivotal avenue for experienced players. It was through this draft that Phoenix acquired basketball stalwarts Bridget Pettis and Nancy Lieberman. At 39 years old, Lieberman joined the Mercury, contributing her veteran presence and skill for a single season, playing in 25 games and averaging 2.6 points, 1.6 assists, and 1.3 rebounds, showcasing her enduring capability at a later stage in her playing career.
Following her tenure with the Phoenix Mercury, Lieberman transitioned seamlessly into coaching, further cementing her influence on the sport. She assumed the dual role of head coach and general manager for the Detroit Shock from 1998 to 2000, guiding one of the league’s developing franchises. Her coaching journey continued years later, leading the Texas Legends in the NBA Development League, now known as the NBA G-League, underscoring her versatility and commitment to basketball development.
Lieberman’s coaching career extended beyond the WNBA and G-League, reflecting her diverse expertise. She served as an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings, a significant step into the male professional basketball arena. Subsequently, her coaching acumen was once again sought after, leading a team in the BIG3, a testament to her adaptability and respected status across various professional basketball platforms.
In a remarkable demonstration of her passion and resilience, Lieberman made a sensational return to the court at the age of 50, signing with the Detroit Shock years after her initial playing retirement. Though her comeback was brief, culminating in a single game against the Comets before being waived, it underscored her legendary commitment to the sport. Coincidentally, the Shock went on to claim a championship title that very season, adding another unique chapter to her storied career.
Nancy Lieberman’s journey, from her early days as a WNBA pioneer with the Phoenix Mercury to her extensive coaching career and memorable comeback, unequivocally solidifies her status as a basketball legend. Her indelible contributions have not only shaped the Phoenix Mercury’s franchise history but have also left a profound and lasting impact on the broader landscape of WNBA history and women’s professional basketball, making her an icon for generations.
