Alyssa Thomas delivered an impressive performance with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, leading the Phoenix Mercury to a commanding 88-72 victory over the Washington Mystics on Sunday night. The turning point for the Mercury came in the third quarter, where they outscored the Mystics 26-12, establishing a 10-point lead that ballooned to 17 early in the fourth.
Despite a late surge from Washington, which included a 9-0 scoring run, the Mercury quickly countered with eight consecutive points to seal their victory. Supporting Thomas, Satou Sabally contributed 15 points, while Kitija Laksa and Monique Akoa Makani each added 13 points. Natasha Mack rounded out the scoring with 10.
Washington, which recently secured a win against Seattle, saw Shakira Austin lead their efforts with 20 points. Jade Melbourne and Sonia Citron each chipped in 13 points as well. The game was competitive, featuring 10 lead changes in the first quarter, with the Mystics holding a slim advantage at halftime, 46-42.
Notably, the game’s tempo was interrupted with 3:29 left in the third quarter due to security addressing a fan situation, but the Mercury’s momentum carried them through, as Thomas’s shot in the final moments of the third quarter set them up with a 68-58 lead heading into the final period.
This victory reflects the Mercury’s strong form as they continue to position themselves effectively for the remainder of the season. It’s encouraging to see key players stepping up, showcasing their depth and resilience in pivotal moments.