Bold claim: Mercury’s defense carries the weight of a Big 12 legacy, and it all starts with a star who began the journey there. But here's where it gets controversial: does a college conference award translate to pro-level impact, or is it just a historical footnote? This piece dives into how the Phoenix Mercury tie to the Big 12 runs deep, thanks to standout defenders who made their mark in college and carried that momentum into the WNBA.
Brittney Griner’s Baylor era left an indelible imprint on the Big 12. She dominated during her time with the Bears, winning a championship in her third year and earning both Big 12 Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. The Defensive Player of the Year honor, first awarded in 2006, saw early winners like Abiola Wabara and Courtney Paris, with Paris claiming the award for the following two years. Griner’s continued influence helped keep the Big 12’s defensive legacy alive as other Mercury players followed suit.
Among the notable Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year recipients tied to the Mercury is Natasha Mack, who claimed the award in 2021. Her college numbers were eye-popping: averages of 19.8 points, 12.4 rebounds, 4 blocks, 2 steals, and 1.8 assists. Her defensive prowess stood out, and that dominant performance played a key role in shaping her professional trajectory, leading to drafting by the Chicago Sky.
Mack’s journey didn’t end there. She later joined the Mercury, contributing in 2024 and 2025 with strong interior defense. Her presence in the paint was a recurring theme for Phoenix, often featuring multiple blocks in a game and a double-double night that showcased her well-rounded impact. A standout performance against the Chicago Sky—an 83-79 win for Phoenix—highlighted her ability to impact both ends of the floor, with five blocks, 12 rebounds, and 10 points, painting a clear picture of the value she brings.
The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year tradition continued with JJ Quinerly, who won it in 2024 and 2025, signaling that the conference continues to produce elite shot-blockers and defenders who can translate their skills to the WNBA stage. As time goes on, more Mercury-affiliated players with Big 12 ties are poised to emerge, further strengthening the team’s defensive identity.
For more updates on the Mercury and their Big 12 award-winning alumni, follow us on X at MercuryOnSI where we regularly highlight players who left their mark in the conference and how that history informs the team today.
