WNBA Playoffs: Aces Win Big, Mercury Comeback

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The WNBA playoff semifinals delivered a pair of thrilling games last night, with both series now tied at 1-1. The Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury both bounced back from Game 1 losses to even their respective best-of-five series.

Aces Rout Fever, Led by MVP Wilson’s Dominant Performance

Las Vegas Aces 90, Indiana Fever 68

After dropping Game 1 at home, the Las Vegas Aces responded in resounding fashion, fueled by a vintage performance from MVP A’ja Wilson. Wilson, who struggled with her shot in the series opener, rebounded with a game-high 25 points on 10-for-18 shooting, along with nine rebounds and a playoff career-high five steals.

The Aces took control early, jumping out to an 18-point lead in the second quarter. While the Fever responded with a run to cut the deficit to six, the Aces quickly reasserted their dominance. Las Vegas’s offense was highly efficient, shooting 53.8% from the field. NaLyssa Smith added 18 points and seven rebounds, while Jackie Young contributed 13 points and five assists. For the Fever, Odyssey Sims led the team with 16 points and seven assists. All-Star Kelsey Mitchell, who had a huge Game 1, was held to just 13 points on 4-of-14 shooting. The series now shifts to Indiana for Games 3 and 4.

Mercury Complete Stunning Overtime Comeback vs. Lynx

Phoenix Mercury 89, Minnesota Lynx 83 (OT)

In the night’s other semifinal, the Phoenix Mercury pulled off a remarkable comeback to stun the Minnesota Lynx in overtime. The Lynx held a commanding 20-point lead in the first half, but the Mercury slowly chipped away, powered by a stellar fourth-quarter and a clutch finish. Satou Sabally led the way for Phoenix with 24 points, while Alyssa Thomas delivered another outstanding performance, scoring 19 points with 13 assists and eight rebounds.

The Mercury’s comeback was capped by a clutch three-pointer from Sami Whitcomb with just four seconds left in regulation to send the game into overtime. In the extra period, Phoenix’s momentum was undeniable as they completed the upset. The Lynx were led by Napheesa Collier, who scored 24 points on her 29th birthday. Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams also had strong offensive nights with 21 and 20 points, respectively. The Mercury’s bench outscored the Lynx’s bench 25-3, a key factor in their victory.