Last-Second Free Throw Secures Mercury's Narrow Win Over Valkyries

Alyssa Thomas delivered a decisive free throw with just one second left on the clock, propelling the Phoenix Mercury to a narrow 78-77 win against the Golden State Valkyries on Monday night.

With 10.3 seconds remaining, Janelle Salaun drained a crucial 3-pointer, narrowing the gap to 76-75. Moments later, she tied the game at 77 with a baseline jumper, leaving the Mercury vulnerable. However, Thomas was fouled during a drive, and her second free throw rolled in, sealing the game.

DeWanna Bonner was instrumental for Phoenix (15-6), contributing 22 points and securing 11 rebounds. Her reverse layup with 51.8 seconds left had given the Mercury a brief 75-72 advantage, although she faltered at the line, missing two of four free throws in the final moments, which allowed Golden State to stay competitive.

Veronica Burton led the Valkyries (10-11) with 17 points and six assists, while Tiffany Hayes added 15 points. Salaun finished with 12 points, and Monique Billings contributed 10 points along with nine rebounds.

Despite shooting only 39% from the field, Phoenix managed to hold a slim lead of 36-32 at halftime. The Mercury struggled offensively in the fourth quarter, not making their first field goal until the 5:38 mark.