PHOENIX — In a tense, back-and-forth contest at PHX Arena, the Phoenix Mercury secured a 79-73 victory over the New York Liberty to claim their first series win of the postseason. This wasn’t just the first series win of the postseason, but the first one since 2021. The win was defined not only by key scoring bursts but by the team’s resilience, veteran leadership, and strategic adjustments that came to life in the second half.
The Mercury, trailing in a one-point game entering the fourth quarter, showcased the depth and poise that have become hallmarks of their playoff campaign. Alyssa Thomas recorded a triple-double (of course), demonstrating her impact across all facets of the game, while Kahleah Copper delivered a clutch late-game shot that proved to be a huge impact. Satou Sabally’s sharpshooting, particularly from beyond the arc, provided consistent offensive sparks, and DeWanna Bonner’s veteran presence stabilized the team despite five personal fouls.
The game swung on a combination of smart offensive reads and relentless defensive effort. The help off the bench executed in moments where the team truly needed it. “Sami was huge,” Mercury head coach Nate said. “When you have someone willing to screen as a shooter, it really helps. But it’s also about the passing and the cuts. We had some really good reads in the second half, and she made everything click.” The Mercury leaned heavily on their split-action offense in the latter stages, exploiting mismatches and capitalizing on transition opportunities that had been less effective earlier in the series.
Defensively, the Mercury repeatedly answered New York’s runs, demonstrating the trust and communication that Sabally highlighted as essential. “I’m extremely proud of this group,” Satou said. “Every time New York made a run, we answered. That trust and communication has been the difference all year.” Alyssa Thomas and Deanna Bonner controlled the paint, securing rebounds and protecting the rim, while Thomas and Copper applied steady pressure on New York’s perimeter shooters.
The team’s composure down the stretch was especially evident in their late-game execution. Bonner, despite her foul trouble, delivered a critical shot, and Copper’s decisive jumper underscored the impact of veteran poise. “We’re so lucky to have her,” Nate said of Bonner. “She’s a big reason why we are where we are.” Thomas emphasized the importance of experience in handling high-pressure moments. “The composure to not panic during runs, to exploit mismatches, and get the shots we were looking for — that’s what experience does,” she said.
Phoenix’s rebounding dominance was a defining factor, especially in contrast to game one. Nate attributed the team’s success on the boards to preparation, size on the wings, and sheer competitiveness. “We’ve been killing our rebounding all year. Tonight, we stepped up,” he said. The Mercury’s attention to defensive detail, coupled with timely scoring from multiple contributors, allowed them to maintain a narrow lead down the stretch.
Fans also played a pivotal role, with the Mercury’s X-Factor section energizing the team at key junctures. “Whenever something isn’t going right, they’re cheering us on,” Sabally said. “It makes the game a lot more fun and pushes us to give 100%.”
As Phoenix celebrates this hard-fought series win, the team remains focused on the next challenge. “Tonight we celebrate,” Sabally said. “Tomorrow, it’s full focus on Minnesota.” With a mix of veteran leadership, emerging stars, and unrelenting intensity, the Mercury have positioned themselves as a formidable contender as the playoffs continue.
