Why Mercury’s Gaines Was A Coach Of The Year Candidate

The Phoenix Mercury had a great 2009 season, as they not only found themselves back in the playoffs, but they also won a championship. The Mercury won their first championship in 2007, and they achieved that feat by beating the Detroit Shock. Phoenix did not get a chance to repeat, as the Mercury finished the season with a record of 16-18. They missed the playoffs, and the Shock defeated the San Antonio Silver Stars to win it all. The Mercury came back with a vengeance in 2009, and they beat the Silver Stars and the Los Angeles Sparks to win their second championship. Phoenix had a different coach this time around, as Corey Gaines was leading the way. Gaines was one of Paul Westhead’s assistants, and Westhead left the position after leading the Mercury to their first title. Gaines took over, and he was the team’s head coach until 2013. He was fired after the Mercury started that season 10-11. When it comes to the 2009 season, Gaines received recognition for his team’s efforts. He was a part of the Coach of tRead More