Resilience Reigns: Mercury's Unstoppable Spirit Conquers Tempo's Home Debut
Copper and Ayayi Lead the Charge for Phoenix
Kahleah Copper delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 27 points, while Valeriane Ayayi achieved a personal best of 20 points. Their combined efforts were instrumental in leading the Phoenix Mercury to an 89-80 victory over the Toronto Tempo, spoiling the Canadian team's first home game at Scotiabank Center.
Mercury Overcomes Roster Challenges
The Phoenix squad, now boasting a 7-13 record and three wins in their last four contests, played with only eight healthy athletes. They started the game without Alyssa Thomas, who was serving a one-game suspension, and later saw Noemie Brochant exit in the fourth quarter due to an ankle injury.
Tempo Struggles with Key Player Absence
Toronto, with a 9-10 record, also faced personnel challenges. Star guard Marina Mabrey was sidelined with neck spasms, a significant blow following her recent 53-point game against Los Angeles, which tied a WNBA record. She was observed on the bench with a towel around her neck.
Clutch Plays Secure Mercury's Win
With the game tied at 73 in the final five minutes, the Mercury demonstrated superior composure. DeWanna Bonner's step-back three-pointer put Phoenix ahead 83-77. After the Tempo narrowed the gap, Copper's timely rebound and put-back extended Phoenix's lead to 85-80 with just over 51 seconds remaining.
Controversial Call Overturned in Favor of Phoenix
A foul called against Phoenix's Isabella Harrison was overturned after a video review, giving the Mercury possession and effectively sealing their victory as they maintained control of the game's closing moments.
Tempo's Balanced Scoring Effort Not Enough
Six different Toronto players reached double-digit scoring, with Nyara Sabally leading her team with 14 points. Rookie Tima Pouye also contributed a career-high 13 points in a losing effort.
Tempo's Early Three-Point Barrage
Despite making only one two-point basket in the opening quarter, the Tempo drained six three-pointers, concluding the first period with a narrow 22-20 advantage.
Mercury's Second Quarter Surge and Tempo's Response
Phoenix began the second quarter strong, taking a 34-27 lead after Bonner's steal and layup. However, Toronto quickly responded with a 7-0 run, highlighted by Julie Allemand's three-pointer, to reclaim a 44-42 lead at halftime.