The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Minnesota Lynx 84-76 in Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals, moving one victory away from reaching the WNBA Finals. The game was fiercely competitive, with the Mercury’s defense stepping up significantly in the fourth quarter, limiting the Lynx to just nine points. This defensive stronghold allowed Phoenix to secure the win at PHX Arena on September 26.
Phoenix’s success was largely attributed to their powerful trio—Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper, and Alyssa Thomas. Sabally, after a rough start, made an impressive comeback in the second half, scoring 19 points and finishing with a total of 23 points for the game. Her resilience included shooting a perfect 11-for-11 at the free-throw line. Coach Nate Tibbetts praised Sabally’s ability to adapt, emphasizing how she let the game unfold naturally in the second half, allowing her fearless play to shine.
Copper also played a pivotal role, scoring 21 points on efficient 9-of-13 shooting. Her high performance in the first half kept the Mercury afloat, although her competitive fire led to a technical foul during an intense moment. However, Alyssa Thomas’s composure during team timeouts helped maintain focus and momentum against their formidable opponents.
The game was not without controversy. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve was ejected following a heated exchange after Lynx player Napheesa Collier appeared injured in a physical play with Thomas, raising concerns about the physicality on the court. Reeve expressed her frustration in her postgame comments, highlighting the physical toll on players during the match.
Despite the loss, the Lynx saw a standout performance from Natisha Hiedeman, who led her team with 19 points, providing a critical spark off the bench. However, they struggled to maintain this momentum in the second half, ultimately conceding to the Mercury’s relentless defense.
The Phoenix Mercury are now positioned to eliminate the Lynx in Game 4, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 28, on ESPN. With star players performing at peak levels and a strategic focus from their coach, the Mercury aim to advance to the WNBA Finals, demonstrating teamwork and adaptability in high-pressure situations. The dynamic between the teams has highlighted both individual brilliance and collective unity, signaling a thrilling climax to this playoff series.