Mercury drop Game 1 of WNBA Finals to Aces

The Mercury started the game on a 10-2 run against the Aces. Las Vegas was able to cut Phoenix’s run and come back from an eight-point deficit to tie the game in the last minute of the first quarter, 21-21.

Las Vegas would take its first lead in the second quarter in the first minute, but Phoenix quickly responded to tie it up once again. Both teams would exchange leads throughout the quarter, without either team being able to mount an extended offensive run. However, Mercury’s 6-0 run from Kahleah Copper during the final three minutes of the first half gave them a 50-45 lead at halftime.

Phoenix’s bench had eight points in the first half, while Las Vegas had 25.

The Aces went on a 6-0 run to open the third quarter for the lead, but the Mercury went on their own 7-0 run to retake it. Las Vegas was able to close in within one point in the last seconds of the quarter, but Phoenix continued to push for a 71-67 lead after the third.

Las Vegas was able to get within one again as they went on an 8-5 run in the fourth quarter, 76-75. The teams again exchanged leads in the quarter, but Ace’s Dana Evans 3-point shot began a 5-0 run. It was enough to keep Las Vegas ahead and seal the win.

The Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces play Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Sunday, Oct. 5.