Brooklyn, NY — The Phoenix Mercury continued their hot streak on Thursday night, handing the New York Liberty their first home loss of the season in an 89–81 victory at Barclays Center.
Rookie sensation Monique Akoa Makani led the charge with a career-best 21 points, while veteran forward Alyssa Thomas delivered another all-around performance with 18 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists. The win marks Phoenix’s fourth straight and improves their record to 10–4.
Sami Whitcomb came up clutch in the fourth quarter, scoring eight of her 16 points down the stretch, including a crucial three-pointer that capped a 16–6 Mercury run, giving them an 84–74 lead with just over three minutes remaining. Satou Sabally chipped in with 14 points and nine boards, and Kitija Laksa added 13 points off the bench.
Despite a dominant outing from Breanna Stewart, who notched a season-high 35 points, the Liberty (10–2) struggled offensively. Sabrina Ionescu had an off night, scoring 16 points on 3-of-16 shooting, including just 1-of-10 from beyond the arc.
The Liberty’s momentum took a hit early when Jonquel Jones exited the game in the second quarter with a right ankle injury and did not return. Phoenix also faced adversity when Lexi Held left midway through the third after a collision with Stewart during a loose-ball scramble.
The Mercury played without Kahleah Copper due to injury management. Copper, the 2021 WNBA Finals MVP, returned from right knee surgery earlier this month and made her season debut against Las Vegas on Sunday. She previously scored 19 in Phoenix’s win over Connecticut on Wednesday.
What’s Next:
The Liberty hit the road for a four-game trip starting Sunday at Seattle.
The Mercury continue their road swing, facing the Chicago Sky on Saturday.
