Mercury hope to apply quick adjustments to balance series against Aces

After a dominant first-half showing, the Mercury couldn’t carry momentum over into the second. The Aces adapted to the Mercury’s playing style, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on fouls. Phoenix couldn’t overcome Las Vegas’ defense, scoring just 15 points in the fourth quarter and losing 89-86.

The team now has the opportunity to bounce back in Game 2 before heading home for the next two games of the series.

“Some of it is just we have to make shots,” Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb said. “I thought I got some great looks and I missed. We have to do our job as shooters to make those shots. I know we’re gonna generate those looks, [Alyssa Thomas] has done that for us all year. So, some of it is just as simple as knocking down shots that we didn’t knock down.”

Las Vegas’ 89 points are the most Phoenix has given up in the playoffs thus far, highlighting the team’s defensive struggles. The Aces scored 20 or more points in each quarter.

“We gave up 89 points,” Whitcomb said. “There’s a lot we need to do on that end still and fix. Make those adjustments and hopefully that then puts less pressure on our offense.”

This isn’t the first time the Mercury have played from behind in these playoffs. They lost both Game 1s in their previous series but came back to win the remaining games and advance. While there’s no guarantee this series will follow the same path, the team has been in this position before.

If Phoenix takes Game 2, the team will come home with the series tied and forcing a Game 5. With their backs against the wall once again, the Mercury will look to rely on a quick turnaround and adjustments in Game 2.

The Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces will play Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Sunday, Oct. 5, at 12 p.m.