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In Phoenix last night, Diana Taurasi sat out as her Mercury played visiting Connecticut. Phoenix Coach Corey Gaines said Taurasi needed the rest. But rumors on twitter surrounded this:

The Mercury planned to sit Taurasi the rest of the season, but Alexis Hornbuckle was ejected from Wednesday's game for a "flagrant foul-penalty 2" and might be suspended by WNBA President Laurel Richie. Per WNBA rules, the Mercury will need to dress at least eight players for a game. The Mercury have just nine healthy players, as rookie guard Samantha Prahalis (right shoulder) was out for the third consecutive game.

A message to Phoenix Mercury media relations today to confirm whether or not Taurasi would sit out the last five games was not returned.

But I don't remember Team USA having this much trouble readjusting to league play in 2008. Here's how our gold medalists have fared over the last month:

Sue Bird - Had the flu upon returning and missed two games. Missed last night's game for rest.

Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen and Maya Moore - Playing for the Lynx just fine.

Tamika Catchings - In MVP form.

Diana Taurasi - Missed several games upon return due to dental surgery. Now may miss the rest of the season for rest.

Tina Charles - In MVP form.

Angel McCoughtry - Slow returning to the Dream, then suspended by new coach Fred Williams before returning to high-scoring form.

Asjha Jones - Out with an Achilles strain.

Sylvia Fowles - Out with a calf strain.

Candace Parker - Visibly tired, possible knee issues, is scoring significantly less.

Swin Cash - So far so good.

Fans always lament that female ballers should rest more, but the opportunities they have at the times of the year that their leagues play doesn't afford that.

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