Stanford's WNBA Legacy: Kiana Williams' Shining Performance with the Phoenix Mercury
The Phoenix Mercury's 2023 season showcased the talent of Kiana Williams, a standout guard who has become a key player for the team. Williams' journey in the WNBA began in 2021 when she was drafted by the Seattle Storm, but her Stanford roots run deep. As a Stanford alumna, she joins a prestigious list of 37 players who have graced the WNBA with their skills, a connection that dates back to 1997.
One of Williams' standout performances came against the Dallas Wings, where she scored 17 points, dished out four assists, grabbed three rebounds, and stole the ball. The Mercury's victory in that game, a 30-point blowout, was a testament to the team's depth, with Sami Whitcomb and Alyssa Thomas also contributing significantly.
Williams' WNBA career started with a bang, as she was part of the Stanford team that won the NCAA championship in 2021, defeating Arizona. In that game, she contributed five points, three assists, and two rebounds, with Haley Jones leading the way with 17 points, eight rebounds, and an assist.
The Mercury's connection to Stanford extends beyond Williams. In 1997, Jamila Wideman became the third pick in the WNBA draft, selected by the Los Angeles Sparks. She played 28 games in her rookie season, averaging 3.7 assists, 3 points, and 2 rebounds. The next Stanford player to make the WNBA was Olympia Scott, drafted in 1998 by the Utah Starzz. Scott played for several teams, including the Detroit Shock, Indiana Fever, Charlotte Sting, and Mercury, winning championships with both the Shock and the Mercury.
Another Stanford graduate, Vanessa Nygaard, was drafted in 1998 and played in the WNBA from 1999 to 2003. Years later, she became the Mercury's head coach. The WNBA's connection to Stanford continued with the arrival of Nneka Ogwumike and her sister Chiney, followed by players like Karlie Samuelson, Alanna Smith, DiJonai Carrington, and Cameron Brink. The most recent Stanford player to join the league is Kiki Iriafen, who played for Stanford before transferring to USC.
Kiana Williams' performance with the Mercury is a testament to her talent and dedication. When she steps onto the court, she represents not only the Mercury but also the proud tradition of Stanford basketball in the WNBA.
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