Mercury top New York Liberty with triple digits and new franchise record

The Mercury started off the game right where they left off, pushing defense and forcing turnovers against the Liberty. Phoenix outscored New York 28-19 after the first quarter and extended their lead to 18 points during the second. The Liberty started a rally and cut the deficit to seven points. However, Phoenix continued to shoot efficiently and took a 61-43 lead into halftime.

Six different Mercury players made shots from beyond the arc, shooting 52.4% in the first half.

New York came out shooting to start the second half, going on an 8-3 run in the first minutes, with Breanna Stewart leading their offensive charge. The Mercury quickly responded, going from beyond the field to keep their lead.

During the fourth quarter, Phoenix tied and then broke its franchise record for three-point shots made in a single game, with Satou Sabally hitting the record-breaking 18th.

Copper’s Homecoming

Kahleah Copper played in front of the home crowd for the first time this season after coming back from injury. She scored 12 points with four rebounds and one assist. Copper made two shots from beyond the arc to help the Mercury break the franchise record.

When asked by Aya Abdeen from Ball Is Life about Copper returning and the win, Sabally said her teammate makes a huge difference.

“[Copper] draws three people every time she drives it to the basket,” she said. “She’s just so fast and finesse with it, and spreads the floor… I’m just happy we’re all back together.”

Looking Towards Sunday

The Phoenix Mercury continue their home stand against the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday, June 29 at 3 p.m.