The Phoenix Mercury delivered one of their most impressive performances of the season on March 15, 2024, overpowering the Indiana Fever with a decisive 95-60 victory. This game marked a significant turnaround from their previous meeting, where they suffered a narrow loss of 107-101. The Mercury controlled the match from the outset, showcasing both offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.
First Half Highlights
In the opening quarter, the Mercury quickly established their dominance, jumping to a 15-7 lead. Key players such as Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally set the tone early, with Sabally hitting a three-pointer and a fadeaway shot. The Fever struggled to find their rhythm, particularly as Aliyah Boston, who had excelled in their last matchup, was limited to just four points and one field goal throughout the game.
The first quarter concluded with Phoenix outscoring Indiana 26-16, restricting the Fever to a mere 38.9% shooting from the field. Notably, the Mercury forced five turnovers, effectively stifling Indiana’s offensive efforts. Kelsey Mitchell contributed eight points for the Fever, yet the team faced significant challenges in generating scoring opportunities.
The second quarter saw the Mercury extend their lead to as much as 14 points. Despite a brief resurgence from Indiana, sparked by a flurry of three-pointers from Cunningham, the Mercury maintained their composure. A remarkable half-court shot by Natisha Howard closed the half with the score at 47-36, giving the Fever a glimmer of hope. However, their struggle was evident, with more turnovers (eight) than assists (seven) at the break.
Defensive Dominance and Triple-Double Milestone
In the third quarter, the Mercury’s defense intensified significantly. Natasha Mack made a key defensive play that resulted in a shot clock violation against Indiana. This momentum carried through as the Mercury moved ahead by 15 points, further solidifying their lead with an impressive 14-0 run that saw the Fever scoreless for over four minutes.
As tensions escalated, the game became increasingly intense, with multiple fouls called in quick succession. The Mercury ended the third quarter leading 73-47, firmly in control of the match.
The final quarter showcased the exceptional talent of Alyssa Thomas, who recorded her third consecutive triple-double, a historic feat as she became the only player in WNBA history to achieve this milestone. Her efforts contributed to the Mercury’s largest margin of victory this season, with the lead swelling to as much as 36 points. Thomas’s stat line included 18 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and three steals, highlighting her all-around impact on the game.
With a final score of 95-60, the Mercury not only secured a vital win but also demonstrated their resilience and potential as they look ahead in the season. The victory was characterized by superb teamwork, with DeWanna Bonner leading all scorers with 23 points, while Sabally added 15 points and eight rebounds in just 20 minutes.
The Indiana Fever, led by Cunningham’s 18 points, struggled to find offensive consistency throughout the game. Mitchell was the only other Fever player to reach double digits, finishing with 12 points, while their previous stars, Aari McDonald and Boston, combined for only eight points.
After the game, Thomas expressed gratitude towards her teammates, acknowledging their role in her achievement. The Mercury’s victory not only boosts their standing but also serves as a statement of their capabilities as they continue to strive for success in the WNBA.
