WNBA Playoffs: Aces and Mercury Take 2-1 Semifinals Leads After Dramatic Friday Night

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Last night’s WNBA playoff semifinals delivered everything: clutch shots, physical battles, emotional eruptions, and big-time stakes. Both matchups tilted in favor of the home sides, but not without controversy and cost.

Minnesota Lynx vs. Phoenix Mercury
The Mercury edged out an 84–76 victory over Minnesota, taking a 2–1 lead in the series. But the headlines went beyond the box score. Lynx star Napheesa Collier appeared shaken after going down on a disputed play, drawing ire from head coach Cheryl Reeve, who was ejected late in the game for her vehement reaction to officiating.
Collier’s stat line — 17 points and six rebounds — showed she fought through the moment, but the injury clouds her availability for the rest of the series.
Meanwhile, Phoenix got a near triple-double from Alyssa Thomas (21 pts, 9 reb, 8 ast), with Satou Sabally (23 pts) and Kahleah Copper (21 pts) also in the mix.
Las Vegas Aces vs. Indiana Fever
Over in Vegas, the Aces shook off a tough night from star A’ja Wilson to beat the Fever 84–72, evening their semifinal series 1–1. The win was built on strong contributions from Jackie Young (25 pts) and Dana Evans (13 pts off the bench).
Wilson’s struggles — uncharacteristic for the two-time MVP — were offset by the team’s depth on both ends.

Key Takeaways & Storylines to Watch

Home Ice Mattered, But Risk Lurks

Playing at home clearly had value last night. But the Lynx’s calamity with Collier’s injury and Reeve’s ejection offer cautionary tales: momentum is fragile, and emotional management becomes a tactical piece in a short series.

Depth vs Dependence

The Aces leaned on their supporting cast. When Wilson couldn’t bring the stat line she usually does, Young and Evans responded. That kind of roster balance may prove decisive down the stretch.

Officiating Under the Microscope

In Minneapolis, fans, coaches, and players all questioned calls late in the game. Reeve’s words after being ejected — which included characterization of the officiating as “malpractice” — echo a growing chorus around how high-stakes games are managed.

Injury Watch

Collier’s condition will be pivotal. If she’s limited or sidelined, Minnesota loses not just a star but a linchpin of their identity on both ends of the floor. The Mercury, already riding momentum, would gain a serious edge.

What Comes Next

Game 4 in both series now looms large. Win or go home.
Expect adjustments: lineups tweaked, rotations shortened, and coaches hunting angles.
If Collier can’t suit up, that could shift matchups and force Minnesota to play an entirely different style.