An emotional game leads to a Mercury win against the New York Liberty

The Mercury stood toe-to-toe with the defending champions to start the game. Both teams traded shots throughout, with neither able to establish a large lead early. New York had 14 turnovers in the first half, but Phoenix couldn’t quite capitalize on them. Alyssa Thomas powered the Mercury to take the lead into halftime, 41-38, with 14 points of her own.

Emotions started to flare in the third quarter. Phoenix’s Monqiue Akoa-Makani and head coach Nate Tibbetts both received technical fouls, shifting momentum to New York’s side. The Liberty would then take a 55-54 lead with 5:21 left in the third quarter. Both teams continued to exchange shots, but the Mercury went on a 15-6 run in the fourth to keep the lead the rest of the game.

Akoa-Makani was the lead scorer for the Mercury with 21 points — a career high.

Breanna Stewart was the lead scorer for the Liberty with 35 points.

Huge Road Win

The Mercury gave the Liberty their second loss of the season and their first at home. The win comes from back-to-back games, with the Mercury securing a win against the Connecticut Sun on Wednesday, June 18. Phoenix has improved to 10-4 and has won four in a row for the first time since 2021.

Thomas talked to reporters after the game and credited each player for their professionalism on the court. Although many haven’t played in the WNBA for long, their experience overseas is valued.

Ending The Road Trip

The Phoenix Mercury end their road trip in Chicago as they take on the Chicago Sky on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.