Phoenix Mercury Ties WNBA Semifinal Series with Historic Comeback
In an epic encounter that defied all expectations, the Phoenix Mercury achieved a monumental victory against the Minnesota Lynx, tying the WNBA semi-final series at 1-1. The triumph, marked by a spectacular comeback, will be etched in the league’s history. The challenge was enormous. The Lynx, who led by 16 or more points at halftime, had never lost a game in those circumstances, neither in playoffs nor in regular season. However, the Mercury achieved the unthinkable, overcoming a 16-point deficit to take the victory in overtime with a score of 89-83. The game, played at the Target Center, saw the Mercury go into halftime with a 48-32 deficit. It seemed that the number one seeded Lynx were heading for a 2-0 lead in the series. But the story took an unexpected turn. The key to the comeback was Sami Whitcomb, who scored a crucial three-pointer to tie the game with only 4.3 seconds remaining on the clock. After a miss by Napheesa Collier in the last second, the game went to overtime, where the Mercury completed their amazing recovery. This comeback equals the biggest in WNBA playoff history, an achievement that demonstrates the tenacity and fighting spirit of the Phoenix team.Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts praised his team’s determination.“Nobody said this would be easy,” Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve commented.
Cheryl Reeve
After losing the first game of the series, the Mercury faced a critical situation at halftime. Tibbetts’ talk in the locker room was intense, and the team’s response was immediate. Whitcomb highlighted the team’s aggressiveness in transition and the importance of reducing turnovers. The Lynx, who had an exceptional regular season, with a 34-10 record and an impressive home performance, made mistakes and showed an attitude that was not expected. Whitcomb, known for her dedication to shooting training, attributed her success to hours of practice.“Just pride, toughness, courage. I couldn’t be prouder of my group for doing that. I’m excited. Phoenix will be in a frenzy on Friday and Sunday (for games 3 and 4)”, said the coach.
Nate Tibbetts
Satou Sabally led the Mercury with 24 points and nine rebounds, while Alyssa Thomas contributed 19 points, 13 assists, and 8 rebounds. Whitcomb added 13 points off the bench. Collier, for her part, led the Lynx with 24 points, but lamented the turnovers and the lack of composure of her team. The series now moves to Phoenix, where the Mercury will seek to maintain momentum and secure their place in the next round.“I was just kidding, you know, 20,000 [practice shots] for one shot,” Whitcomb said. “I would love to make all my shots, but I feel like it manifests in moments like that, those big moments.”
Sami Whitcomb
