How The Mercury Defeated One Of Their Oldest Rivals

Phoenix's 2024 roster was much different from this year's, but they still had their share of success. They beat teams like the Chicago Sky and the Dallas Wings, but they struggled against the Connecticut Sun and others.

In that season, the Mercury also won their season series against one of their oldest rivals. They beat the Los Angeles Sparks 4-0, and it started with a win during the Commissioner's Cup.

The Mercury beat the Sparks 87-68, and Diana Taurasi's big game gave them the victory. Taurasi finished the game with 31 points, two rebounds and two steals.

While Taurasi stood out the most, this game was a balanced effort. Natasha Cloud had 21 points, 12 assists, three rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Copper had 12 points, three rebounds and a steal.

In the second meeting, the Mercury beat the Sparks 92-78. That game was another balanced effort, and Copper was the leading scorer. She had 24 points, while Taurasi had 20, Brittney Griner had 18 and Cloud had 14.

The last two games between these teams were closer, and Phoenix still picked up a win. They beat the Sparks 84-78. Cloud was the star of the show this time around, as she had 31 points, nine rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Copper was the second-leading scorer, and she had a double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds. She also had five assists.

Mercury win again, sweep the Sparks

Then, in the final game, Phoenix beat Los Angeles 85-81. The Mercury had five players who scored in double figures. Griner and Sophie Cunningham both had 14 points. Cloud and Taurasi had 13 points each, and MiKiah Herbert Harrigan had 10.

When it came to this year, the Mercury nearly swept the Sparks, but Los Angeles won the final game. They beat the Mercury 88-83 in a game where Satou Sabally had 24 points.

The Mercury and the Sparks have history, and in the last two years, Phoenix has had the upper hand.