The Phoenix Mercury dominated the Seattle Storm in an 87-78 victory, led by Kahleah Copper’s 30 points and Brittney Griner’s season-high 28 points. Copper made 11 of 20 shots from the floor, including three 3-pointers, while Griner, playing in her fourth game after returning from a toe fracture, scored 10 of 15 shots and all seven of her free throws. Diana Taurasi also contributed with 13 points, eight rebounds, and four assists for Phoenix.
On the other side, Nneka Ogwumike led the Storm with 15 points and 11 rebounds, marking her third double-double of the season. Ezi Magbegor, Jewell Loyd, and Skylar Diggins-Smith each scored 14 points for the Storm, with Magbegor grabbing eight rebounds and Diggins-Smith dishing out eight assists. Jordan Horston added 12 points and five steals off the bench.
Phoenix took an early lead in the game, with Copper and Griner leading the charge. The Storm fought back, but the Mercury trio of Copper, Griner, and Taurasi maintained control of the game, leading Phoenix to a 47-33 halftime lead.
Although the Storm tried to close the gap in the second half, Phoenix maintained their lead with key plays from Griner and timely scoring from their other players. Despite a late push from Seattle, the Mercury held on for the win.
This victory was a strong bounce-back for Phoenix after a tough loss to the Las Vegas Aces, and it sets the stage for their upcoming game against the New York Liberty. The Mercury will look to carry this momentum forward and continue their winning ways in the upcoming matchups.
