Phoenix Mercury visit President Bush

The WNBA champion Phoenix Mercury were honored Monday morning by President George W. Bush at the White House.

President Bush singled out Mercury stars and Olympians Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter for their efforts in the WNBA and the upcoming 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.

Now, this is not the first time that Diana has been here to the White House. She came with the mighty UConn Huskies. And she told me she was going to amount to something in life when I saw her. (Laughter.) She said, “I will be back,” and she is, as the champion. Welcome. Glad you’re here.

And I wish these two — these two great athletes all the best at the Olympics in Beijing. They’re going to be carrying on the great tradition of women’s basketball here in the United States. And even though it’s going to be tough, a lot of teams are getting ready for them, they’re going to come back with the Gold and America will be proud. (Applause.)

The president also received a replica championship banner and Mercury team jersey. Photos from the White House ceremony at WNBA.com.