Sammy Prahalis taken by the Mercury

A big time player is finally going to get the chance to compete on a big-time stage.

Former Commack High School star and Ohio State All-American Samantha Prahalis was taken with the No. 6 pick in the WNBA draft by the Phoenix Mercury on Monday.

Prahalis, a high energy point guard, said her and the Mercury are the “perfect fit”. Phoenix led WNBA in scoring, putting up 89 points per game.

“They play an up-tempo style,” said the former McDonald’s All-American. “And they score a lot.”

Prahalis should indeed be the perfect fit. The 5-7 point guard led Ohio State in assists (6.3) and was second in scoring (19.8) and helped lead the Buckeyes to the NCAA Tournament for the fourth straight year. Her run-and-gun style could be just what the doctor ordered for Mercury star Diana Taurasi.

I’m so relieved and excited,” said Prahalis. “It’s crazy when I think about that I’m going to go and play with Diana Taurasi and – that whole team, there’s so many good players, it’s crazy. And I’m going to be living in Phoenix. Wow.”

So what does Prahalis’ selection say about the status of Long Island girl’s high school basketball?

“It says a lot. To get a few pros on the women’s side is great,” said Prahalis. “I hope there are more after me to come.”

Seattle Storm point guard Sue Bird (Syosset) is the only other Long Island native currently in the league.