In an exciting matchup on Thursday night, the Phoenix Mercury secured an 86-77 victory over the Golden State Valkyries, thanks to a stellar performance from rookie Lexi Held, who scored a season-high 24 points. Satou Sabally contributed significantly with 19 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. The Mercury overcame a late-game deficit, trailing 76-68 with just over four minutes remaining.
Held made a crucial three-pointer that gave Phoenix a 77-76 lead with 1:11 left. Following a missed opportunity at the free-throw line for Golden State, Sabally rebounded her own shot and scored while being fouled, completing a three-point play to establish an 80-77 lead. Veronica Burton, the leading scorer for Golden State with 16 points, missed a layup on the subsequent possession, allowing Sabally to extend the Mercury’s lead with two more free throws. Golden State’s struggles continued as they turned the ball over twice during inbound plays, leading to four more free throws for Phoenix, sealing their triumph.
Phoenix improved their overall record to 6-3 and achieved a franchise-best 5-1 start at home this season, despite being without starters Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas. Additionally, Sami Whitcomb added nine points for the Mercury before fouling out. Golden State, now at 2-5, had Tim Fagbenle with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while multiple players, including Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Julie Vanloo, contributed 10 points each. The game featured a notable moment when Megan McConnell, recovering from injury, sported her brother T.J. McConnell’s NBA jersey.
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