Mercury secures a win, forcing Liberty into a critical Game 3 in the series
The Phoenix Mercury dominated the New York Liberty in Game 2 of the WNBA Playoffs, securing an impressive 86-60 victory. This win forces a decisive Game 3, which the Liberty will travel to Phoenix to play.
The first quarter ended with a tie, but Phoenix took control in the second. Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper, DeWanna Bonner, and Kathryn Westbeld all scored in double digits for the Mercury, with Sabally starting the scoring spree in the second quarter. This came as Breanna Stewart was not at full health for the Liberty.
Phoenix outrebounded New York 11-7 in the first quarter and had five blocks in the first 10 minutes. The Mercury also capitalised on the Liberty's 15 turnovers, converting them into 25 points. In contrast, Phoenix made all seven of its free throw attempts in the first quarter, while New York went 2-of-7.
In the second quarter, Phoenix rattled off seven points in just 58 seconds to take a significant lead. New York allowed six points within the first four minutes of the second half, extending their deficit to 57-37. The Liberty ended the second quarter with a 7-2 run, but it was not enough to close the gap.
Alyssa Thomas stated that the team wanted to send the game to a Game 3, and they achieved just that. Jonquel Jones, on the other hand, highlighted that New York needed to improve both defense and offense to stand a chance in the next game.
Emma Meesseman finished the game with 11 points, all scored in the first and third quarter. The game was all but decided, with New York's only player on the court with points being Kennedy Burke (6). Sabrina Ionescu scored 9 points, but made 3-of-13 field goals, 1-of-8 three-pointers, and 2-of-6 free throws.
The score was 69-47 at the end of the third quarter, setting the stage for an intense final quarter in Game 3. The Liberty will need to show significant improvement if they are to avoid elimination and force a decisive Game 4.
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