Here’s a bold statement: defense wins championships, and the Phoenix Mercury knew it when they added Briann January to their roster. But here’s where it gets controversial—while January was celebrated for her defensive prowess, her impact on the Mercury’s success isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Let’s dive into why this move was a game-changer and why it still sparks debate among fans.
Since joining the WNBA in 1997, the Phoenix Mercury have been a powerhouse, boasting legends like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner. Each player brought something unique to the court—some were scoring machines, others dominated the boards, and a few were playmaking maestros. But defense? That’s where Briann January shined. Her defensive skills weren’t just good; they were championship-caliber, and the Mercury recognized her value when they acquired her in 2018.
January’s journey began with the Indiana Fever, who drafted her in 2009. In her rookie season, she averaged 6.9 points, 2.3 assists, 1.9 rebounds, and a steal per game. The Fever had a stellar 22-12 record that year, reaching the WNBA Finals—only to face the Mercury, who clinched the title in a thrilling 3-2 series. And this is the part most people miss—January’s defensive presence was already making waves, even as a rookie.
She stayed with the Fever for several years, helping them secure their first championship in 2012. That season, she averaged 10.3 points, 3.9 assists, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. Her defensive prowess earned her multiple All-Defensive First and Second Team honors, solidifying her reputation as a lockdown guard. But why did the Mercury trade for her in 2018? Here’s the controversial take: While January’s defense was undeniable, her offensive output had dipped, leaving some to question if she was still a franchise-changing player.
In her first season with Phoenix, January averaged 7 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.1 rebounds, starting all 33 games. The Mercury finished 20-14 and made a solid playoff run, but was it because of January, or despite her? In 2019, her stats dropped slightly to 6.5 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 rebounds, and the team finished 15-19, exiting the playoffs in the first round. Is it fair to say her impact was overstated?
After the 2019 season, January was traded to the Connecticut Sun, later joining the Seattle Storm before transitioning to coaching. She’s now an assistant coach for the Fever, full circle from where she started. Her career highlights include two Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year awards in college and multiple All-Defensive Team selections in the WNBA—a testament to her defensive mastery.
So, was adding January a masterstroke for the Mercury, or a calculated risk that didn’t fully pay off? Here’s the thought-provoking question: In a league where offense often steals the spotlight, do defensive specialists like January get the credit they deserve? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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