PHOENIX — Celeste Taylor returns for her second season with the Phoenix Mercury and she wants the Phoenix rookies to take their journeys one day at a time as she’s doing for hers.

Taylor has been playing for the Sydney Flames in Australia and recently joined Phoenix for her first training camp. She credited Kahleah Copper, Phoenix guard and one of the group’s leaders, for looking out for her when she came for camp.

“[Copper]’s definitely like my big sister,” Taylor said. “It’s been amazing to have someone like her, someone I look up to coming into the [WNBA].”

Taylor has played among Phoenix superstars, including Diana Taurasi, and says she’s blessed to have had these veterans cross paths with her on her journey. She doesn’t let that distract her from ongoing play but also doesn’t take it lightly when off the court.

“It’s honestly crazy the vets that I’ve gotten to play with and play under,” said Taylor. “And just learn from and absorb and be that sponge.”

With some experience with Phoenix under her belt, Taylor wants to help lead and help out the newer players. Taylor knows those who work with the team and how much knowledge they bring to Phoenix.

“Just trying to teach the newer guys to understand it’s their pace and their journey,” she said. “So just take it day by day.”