Mercury struggle in second-half opener against Atlanta Dream

The Mercury struggled from the paint to open the game, going seven for 23 as a team. Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray had two key three-pointers to bring Atlanta to a 26-17 lead after the first quarter. Phoenix battled back in the second quarter, cutting a 13-point deficit to five by halftime

Tensions flared between both teams in the second half, as Phoenix continued to get back in the game. Atlanta’s defense kept Phoenix from going on a run, keeping its lead above nine points throughout the third quarter. The Dream continued to shoot efficiently from three, shooting 41.7% as a team.

DeWanna Bonner led scoring for the Mercury with 18 points, shooting 45.5% from the field and making six of her seven free throws.

Different Rotations

Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper and Lexi Held made their returns against the Dream, causing changes in rotations. Kiana Williams, who was re-signed to a second seven-day contract, did not play, though she was available off the bench.

When asked why Williams wasn’t in any of the rotations, head coach Nate Tibbetts said he’s anticipating getting questions like that as the season continues.

“We’re gonna have eight to 10 player rotations,” Tibbetts said. “I think I just went in a different direction tonight.”

Starting The Road Trip

The Phoenix Mercury begin another road trip, starting against the New York Liberty on Friday, July 25.