Mercury Surge Past Lynx with Late Rally, 79-71
Alyssa Thomas delivered a standout performance, scoring 12 of her career-high 29 points in the final quarter, propelling the Phoenix Mercury to a 79-71 victory against the Minnesota Lynx on Wednesday.
Fresh off a remarkable 16th career triple-double just two days prior, Thomas showcased her scoring prowess, hitting 14 of 24 shots from the field. In addition to her scoring, she contributed eight rebounds and five assists, solidifying her impact on the game.
With the score tied at 69 and then again at 71, Thomas took charge, netting back-to-back baskets that pushed Phoenix ahead 75-71. Her late-game surge included 10 points during a decisive 19-4 run that sealed the win for the Mercury.
DeWanna Bonner, who recently signed with Phoenix as a free agent, made her return to the court after an extended absence. The former Connecticut Sun star and Thomas' fiancée recorded seven points and six rebounds in 26 minutes of play. Bonner's history with the Mercury includes two championship titles from her first decade with the team.
Monique Akoa Makani added 13 points to the Mercury's total, while Sami Whitcomb, following her career-high 36-point game, chipped in with 10 points. The team faced challenges without key players Satou Sabally (right ankle) and Kahleah Copper (right hamstring) for the second consecutive game.
Courtney Williams led the Lynx with 21 points, supported by Napheesa Collier's 18 points and Bridget Carleton's contribution of 10 points. Williams hit a crucial off-balance three-pointer as the shot clock expired, giving Minnesota a 67-60 lead with just over five minutes left in the game.
However, the Lynx struggled offensively down the stretch, managing only two field goals in the final minutes—both from Collier. Despite shooting just 1 of 16 from beyond the arc, Phoenix maintained an overall shooting percentage of 47% and converted all 10 of their free-throw attempts.
