The Phoenix Mercury have returned to the WNBA Finals after an impressive postseason run, marking a significant achievement for the team. On Sunday, they secured their spot in the Finals by defeating the Minnesota Lynx 86-81 in Game 4 of their semifinal series, winning the series 3-1. This accomplishment comes in a season marked by a nearly entirely new roster.
New Era for the Phoenix Mercury
Entering the 2023 season, the Phoenix Mercury faced uncertainty. With key players missing and only Kahleah Copper and Natasha Mack remaining from last year’s roster, the team rebuilt with new talent. The acquisition of Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas added depth, but injuries delayed their full impact until late in the season.
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout the playoffs, the Mercury showcased their resilience. They began their campaign against the defending champion New York Liberty and came back to defeat them 2-1 after losing the opening game. Their playoff journey included two significant comebacks, one of which was a historic second-half rally against the Lynx in Game 2.
- Game 1: Loss to Lynx
- Game 2: Historic comeback to win
- Game 3: Controversial with injuries and ejections
- Game 4: Victory over Lynx to clinch Finals berth
In Game 4, the Mercury found themselves down by 14 points initially. Coach Nate Tibbetts noted the nervous energy of his team, but their determination paid off. They outscored the Lynx by 31 points in the fourth quarter, making them the third team in WNBA playoff history to overcome a 13-point deficit at the start of the final period.
Record-Setting Performance
Alyssa Thomas shone in the semifinals, scoring 23 points and providing 10 assists in Game 4. This performance made her the first player in league history to achieve multiple series-clinching wins with at least 20 points and 10 assists in a single postseason. Her playoff double-doubles now total 28, the most in WNBA history.
Looking Forward to the Finals
As the Mercury prepare for the finals, they understand the challenges ahead. Their upcoming opponent will be either the Las Vegas Aces or the Indiana Fever. Each player has expressed confidence in the team and the accomplishments that brought them to this point.
“It’s hard to get to the Finals,” noted DeWanna Bonner, reflecting on her experience in the league. “I’ve only been to the Finals three times in my career.” The Mercury are motivated to make the most of their opportunity, believing they are close to achieving their championship goal.
In their practice facility, a countdown displays the days remaining until the Finals, currently at 19 days. The Mercury are eager to continue their journey and prove their readiness to claim the WNBA title.
