Phoenix Mercury triumphs over New York Liberty in thrilling victory

By Johanna-Rosalye Luna

PHOENIX, AZ – The Phoenix Mercury faced off against the New York Liberty, securing a hard-fought 99-93 win despite numerous challenges. Former Mercury coach Sandy Brondello led Liberty, who now holds a 12-2 record, including 6-1 on the road.

First Quarter
Liberty initially led, but the Mercury, spurred by Diana Taurasi’s three-pointer, quickly closed the gap. The teams exchanged leads, and aggressive play led to turnovers and technical fouls on both Copper and the Mercury coach. Liberty regained the lead, ending the quarter ahead.

Second Quarter
The Mercury struggled early, with Liberty maintaining pressure. Sophie Cunningham provided a spark off the bench, hitting crucial three-pointers. The Mercury found their rhythm midway, slowing the game and tightening their defense. An Allen three-pointer gave the Mercury a 42-41 lead, which they extended to 50-46 by halftime.

Third Quarter
Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart capitalized on Mercury’s defensive lapses, helping Liberty reclaim the lead. The Mercury fell out of sync as Liberty pulled ahead, but the quarter ended with the Mercury narrowing the gap to 76-69.

Fourth Quarter
Taurasi and Allen energized the Mercury, tying the game at 76-76. A controversial technical foul on Taurasi ignited the fans. Allen’s field goal prowess and Sutton’s defense helped the Mercury take an 83-80 lead. Despite Liberty’s persistent efforts, a successful coach’s challenge on a foul against Taurasi and Griner’s clutch performance sealed the game. Griner’s and-1 play and two free throws in the final seconds secured the Mercury’s 99-93 victory.

Post-Game Remarks
Phoenix Mercury’s coach, Nate Tibbetts, praised the team’s grit and highlighted Allen’s critical role. The coach acknowledged the team’s mental lapse in the third quarter but emphasized the collective effort and defensive stops that led to victory. Griner’s return was noted as a game-changer, boosting the team’s confidence in recent games.

Allen and Cunningham reflected on the win, emphasizing the team’s competitive spirit and chemistry. Allen noted the confidence gained from come-from-behind victories, while Cunningham praised the team’s collective effort and championship mindset.