PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury erased a double-digit deficit and battled until the final seconds, but their comeback came up just short in a 94-92 loss to the New York Liberty.
Honoring the 1997 Originals
The day also served as a celebration of the franchise’s history as the Mercury honored members of the inaugural 1997 team during a halftime reunion ceremony.
The court featured the original Mercury logo, a bright orange border and the phrase “Home of the X-Factor,” paying tribute to the franchise’s roots. Former players received personalized 30th season “New Originals” jerseys during the ceremony to commemorate the special occasion.
Original players from the original 1997 team included Toni Foster, Nancy Lienerman, Bridgett Pettis, as well as Gold Medalist, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and Mercury Head Coach Cheryl Miller were in attendance for the special occasion.
Although unable to be in attendance, Ring of Honor member Michele Timms delivery a special video message saying that one of the greatest things that happened during her time with the Mercury was the X-Factor adding that they “made the whole experience so special and there’s no one like the X-Factor”.
The legendary Cheryl Miller took center court to share a special message with the X-Factor thank them for a lifetime of memories. She also expressed her gratitude saying, “Thank you for setting the bar so incredibly high for the rest of the league as the best, best fans on the planet.”
No Quit in Phoenix
The throwback celebration extended to the court, where the Mercury wore their new Originals jerseys accented by the classic Mercury logo further honoring the franchise’s inaugural 1997 team.
New York opened the game with a commanding 7-0 run before Kahleah Copper scored Phoenix’s first points from the free-throw line. The Liberty controlled much of the opening quarter behind efficient shooting and took a 26-15 lead into the second.
The Mercury gradually settled into the game in the second quarter, applying defensive pressure that forced turnovers and created transition opportunities. Phoenix chipped away at the deficit through balanced scoring and improved ball movement, while the veteran duo of Copper and DeWanna Bonner led the charge with aggressive defense and timely offense.
Despite trailing by as many as 10 points, Phoenix closed the gap to three before halftime.
The momentum carried into the third quarter.
Phoenix tied the game at 52 before Bonner knocked down a go-ahead basket to give the Mercury a 55-52 advantage. The Mercury continued to capitalize on New York’s mistakes, using contributions from Bonner, Copper and Alyssa Thomas to complete the comeback and build a double-digit lead midway through the quarter.
As Phoenix’s intensity increased, New York struggled with turnovers and committed several costly fouls. The Liberty responded late in the period, however, reclaiming a narrow 66-65 lead entering the fourth quarter.
The final period featured multiple lead changes before New York’s defense tightened late. The Liberty stretched their advantage to 87-81 with just over two minutes remaining, but the Mercury refused to go away.
Bonner buried a clutch 3-pointer in the closing seconds to pull Phoenix within 92-90, but New York converted key free throws and a defining 3-point shot by Liberty’s Sabrina Ionesco to seal the victory.
Turning the Page
Following the game, Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts credited his team’s resilience despite the loss.
“We got after it the way we needed to,” Tibbetts said. “There were a few deflating possessions, but I thought we stepped it up over the final three quarters.”
Tibbetts also praised Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu, calling her “a great player” and one of the league’s premier 3-point shooters.
Looking ahead, Tibbetts said the team’s focus remains on maintaining its toughness and resilience as it continues its playoff push.
Bonner said she was encouraged by the team’s effort despite the result.
“I’m proud of us and proud of the way we fought,” Bonner said. “It took some time to figure out how to defend them. They’re an aggressive team and one of the best teams in the league.”
Copper emphasized the urgency of every remaining game as Phoenix continues its postseason chase. “At this point, every game matters,” Copper said. “You need to have a short-term memory.”
Looking ahead to the team’s upcoming road stretch, Copper said the Mercury must start games with greater urgency.
“We understand how hard it is to play on the road,” she said. “We have to start games well and be intentional.”
Next Up
The Mercury will begin their 5-game road trip on Aug. 3 when they travel to face the Chicago Sky at Wintrust Arena in Chicago. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. Phoenix time.
The game will be televised nationally on USA Network and locally on Arizona’s Family Sports. Fans can also stream the matchup on Merc+. ♦︎
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