The Phoenix Mercury stumbled right out of the gate on their three-game road trip, with none of their starting five scoring in double figures. The Mercury posted their worst scoring performance of the season, falling 70-47 to the undefeated Connecticut Sun on Tuesday night in Uncasville, CT. The Sun's 6-0 start marks the best in franchise history!
Here are some key highlights:
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Shooting Struggles: Natasha Cloud led the Mercury with nine points, but the team struggled mightily with their shooting. They made just 15 of 63 field goal attempts, resulting in a shooting percentage of 23.8%. Their usually strong perimeter game fell flat, hitting only 1 of 27 attempts from 3-point range.
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Turnover Troubles: Turnovers were a major issue for the Mercury, who finished the game with 20. This allowed the Sun to capitalize and build their lead throughout the game.
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Injury Woes: Sophie Cunningham got her first start of the season, stepping in for Becca Allen, who suffered a concussion in Saturday’s loss to the Dallas Wings. The bench was further depleted by the absence of guard Sug Sutton, sidelined with a right ankle injury.
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Early Lead Lost: The Mercury briefly held a 6-2 lead thanks to two layups by Diana Taurasi, but the Sun quickly took control. The Mercury committed seven turnovers in the first quarter, allowing the Sun to lead 15-13 by the end of the period. Taurasi, usually a reliable scorer, couldn't find her rhythm and went 0-for-9 after the first quarter.
The second half was no better for the Mercury, as they went 3-for-15 in the third quarter and watched the Sun pull away with an 18-point lead. Kahleah Copper, who has been averaging over 29 points per game, managed only seven points, while Taurasi added just six.
Now, the Mercury need to regroup quickly. They head to New York to face the Liberty on Wednesday at 4 p.m. PT, hoping to turn things around and find their groove once again.
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