There were two celebrations Friday night at US Airways Center.

The first was an amazing pregame ceremony that honored the 2014 WNBA Champion Phoenix Mercury – the greatest team in league history. Multiple players from last year’s squad were on hand (including Diana Taurasi) to join the X-Factor in the festivities.

The second celebration was even better: a win.

In their 76-71 victory over the San Antonio Stars, the Mercury extended their home winning streak to 16 regular season games — the longest regular season home winning streak in team history. The streak started on May 30, 2014 with a 100-78 win over the Tulsa Shock. Including the 2014 WNBA Playoffs, the streak would improve to 21 consecutive games.

“The home crowd was amazing tonight,” Candice Dupree said. “The X-Factor always delivers. It was really good to get a win, and even better to get a win at home to start the season.”

DeWanna Bonner had a phenomenal all-around game with 21 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Candice Dupree added 14 points and nine boards.

“They’re a really good team,” Bonner said. “We fought until the end. I’m just glad I was able to be aggressive and help this team get the season started out on the right foot. We had a lot of players step up tonight — Monique [Currie], Cayla [Francis], everyone.”

Indeed, the Mercury’s free agent additions in the offseason helped propel them to Friday’s victory. Currie tallied 12 points, three rebounds and two assists, Leilani Mitchell added 11 points and Francis finished with 10.

In the end, Brondello turned to rookie guard Alex Harden for her defense. And she certainly delivered.

“We needed that stop,” Brondello said in reference to Harden’s block at the end of the game. “I have a lot of trust in her and her ability. We needed that tough defense and energy, and Alex did a great job.”

A ring ceremony. A banner unveiling. A win.

Not a bad way to start the 2015 season.