Alyssa Thomas delivered a standout performance by scoring a career-high 29 points along with eight rebounds, leading the Phoenix Mercury to a 79-71 home victory over the Minnesota Lynx on Wednesday. This win brought the Mercury closer to the league-leading Lynx as both teams battle near the top of the standings.
Thomas was especially dominant in the fourth quarter, contributing 12 points during a decisive 19-4 run that ultimately swung the game in Phoenix’s favor.
Key Contributions Fueling Phoenix’s Triumph
Besides Thomas, Monique Akoa Makani added 13 points for the Mercury, while DeWanna Bonner, returning to Phoenix, provided seven points and six rebounds. Sami Whitcomb also played a vital role, recording 10 points and six assists. Phoenix improved to 14-6 overall and has won eight of their previous ten contests.
Strong Efforts From Minnesota Despite Loss
For the visiting Minnesota Lynx, Courtney Williams scored 21 points and grabbed six rebounds, and Napheesa Collier, the league’s top scorer, delivered 18 points and seven rebounds. This defeat ended the Lynx’s five-game winning streak early in their four-game, six-day road trip. The teams are currently ranked first and second in the league standings.
The Lynx had taken the first two games in their season series against Phoenix, and the teams are set to face off for the final time on July 16 in Minneapolis.
Game Dynamics and Tactical Shifts Highlight Fourth Quarter
Collier was conservative in the first half with only three shot attempts but surged with 14 points in the second half, maintaining her average of 24.3 points per game. After a strong run by Minnesota gave them a 57-52 lead following the third quarter, the Mercury fought back when Williams hit a three-pointer to make it 67-60. However, Phoenix gradually gained control, with Thomas leading the charge in the final quarter.
Despite Minnesota limiting Phoenix’s success from three-point range, forcing the Mercury to miss 15 of 16 attempts and only 9 out of 62 attempts in the series so far, Phoenix overcame this challenge through efficient shooting and timely plays.
Rebounding and Turnovers Influence Outcome
The Lynx held a slight edge on the boards, 36-35, including 10 offensive rebounds that resulted in 19 second-chance points. Alanna Smith and Jessica Shepard contributed nine and seven rebounds respectively. However, Minnesota struggled with shooting efficiency, converting only 42.9 percent of their field goal attempts and committing 18 turnovers—seven more than Phoenix.
The Mercury posted a 46.6 percent shooting rate, the first time they have exceeded 40 percent against Minnesota this season.
Notable Moments and Player Connections
Bonner’s three-point play off a lob from Thomas lifted Phoenix to a 40-37 lead at halftime. This game marked the first time Thomas and Bonner appeared together for the Mercury since both departed the Connecticut Sun last season. Their partnership also holds a personal milestone, as the pair announced their engagement during the 2023 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA All-Star Game.
Significance for Phoenix and Upcoming Challenges
This victory highlights the Mercury’s growing momentum as they aim to close the gap in the tightly contested league standings. With two strong contenders now separated by slim margins, the approaching rematch on July 16 will be crucial for both teams as they vie for positioning during the season.