Revisiting the Mercury's Battle With The Sparks

The Phoenix Mercury had one of their worst seasons in 2023. They finished that season with a record of 9-31, and it was the first time they missed the playoffs since 2012. That was the year before Phoenix drafted Brittney Griner, and they finished the year with a record of 7-27. Phoenix struggled, and after 2023, the Mercury regrouped and reached the playoffs. It was a difficult period, and the Mercury had to fight through it to get back on track. The Mercury started 2023 with two losses. They faced the Los Angeles Sparks in the first game, and the Sparks beat them 94-71. Their next opponent was the Chicago Sky, and the Sky beat them 75-69. The Mercury faced the Minnesota Lynx in the next game, and they beat Minnesota 90-81. Diana Taurasi was the star of the game, as she had 23 points, 10 assists, three rebounds and a steal. Phoenix played well in that game, and outside of Taurasi, the Mercury had four more players who scored in double figures. Brittney Griner had 19 points, eight rebounds, three blocks and