Here's a bold statement: Temeka Johnson didn't just play basketball; she made history. But here's where it gets controversial: while many remember her as a solid contributor, her impact on the Phoenix Mercury and the WNBA goes far beyond the stats. Let’s dive into how this former Mercury guard not only helped secure a championship but also etched her name in the record books with a rare triple-double.
Temeka Johnson joined the Phoenix Mercury in 2009, quickly becoming a key player in their second championship run. That season, she averaged 9.6 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds across 34 games, all of which she started. Her standout performance came against the Los Angeles Sparks, where she dropped 18 points, showcasing her ability to step up in big moments. Interestingly, Johnson had previously played for the Sparks after being traded from the Washington Mystics, spending three seasons in Los Angeles before making her way to Phoenix.
Her debut season with the Mercury was just the beginning. In the playoffs, Johnson maintained her momentum, averaging 7.5 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds while starting every game. Her best playoff performance came against the Indiana Fever, where she tallied 14 points, five assists, and two rebounds. She wasn’t alone in her efforts; Diana Taurasi led the charge with 20 points, seven rebounds, four blocks, three assists, and a steal. Penny Taylor added 14 points, while Cappie Pondexter and Tangela Smith each contributed 12 points, highlighting the Mercury’s depth and teamwork.
Johnson’s success with the Mercury didn’t stop after the championship. Her second season was equally impressive, with averages of 9.2 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. After one more season in Phoenix, she was traded to the Tulsa Shock in exchange for Andrea Riley. And this is the part most people miss: it was with the Shock that Johnson had the best season of her career, averaging 12.2 points, 4.7 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals.
But what truly cemented her legacy was her historic triple-double. In a memorable game, Johnson recorded 13 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, joining an elite group of WNBA players—Sheryl Swoopes, Margo Dydek, Lisa Leslie, and Deanna Nolan—who had achieved this feat. Since then, others like Mercury star Alyssa Thomas have joined this exclusive club, but Johnson’s accomplishment remains a testament to her versatility and skill.
That special game against the Seattle Storm was a thriller. Despite the Storm’s fierce competition, the New York Liberty secured an 84-80 overtime win, thanks in no small part to Johnson’s stellar performance. Her ability to impact the game in multiple facets—scoring, playmaking, and rebounding—highlighted why she was such a valuable player.
Johnson’s talent and contributions have earned her a special place in both Mercury and WNBA history. Her journey from the Sparks to the Mercury and eventually the Shock showcases her adaptability and determination. Here’s a thought-provoking question: In a league where triple-doubles are rare, does Johnson’s achievement deserve more recognition? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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