The 2019 WNBA season was a rollercoaster for the Phoenix Mercury, and one matchup stands out as a glaring reminder of their struggles: their battles against the Chicago Sky. While the Mercury secured another playoff spot, their clashes with the Sky exposed vulnerabilities that ultimately defined their season. But here's where it gets intriguing—despite boasting powerhouse players like Brittney Griner and DeWanna Bonner, the Mercury couldn't seem to crack the Sky's code. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t just one game; it was a sweep that highlighted deeper challenges.
Let’s break it down. In the first game, hosted by the Sky, Chicago emerged victorious with an 82-75 win. DeWanna Bonner was unstoppable, racking up 28 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, a steal, and a block. Brittney Griner held her own with 16 points, six rebounds, two blocks, an assist, and a steal. Yet, it was Diamond DeShields—who ironically joined the Mercury later—who tipped the scales for the Sky with 25 points, three steals, two rebounds, two assists, and a block. Was this a sign of things to come, or just a fluke?
The second game, held in Phoenix, was the Mercury’s chance to even the series. But Chicago doubled down, securing a 94-86 win. Griner exploded with 34 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and a block, while Bonner added 18 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, a steal, and a block. Even Diana Taurasi chipped in with 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Yet, the Sky’s momentum was undeniable. Could the Mercury’s reliance on their star players have been their downfall?
The third game, back in Chicago, sealed the deal. The Sky dominated with a 105-78 victory. Griner led the Mercury again with 26 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, while Bonner posted a double-double with 12 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and two steals. Essence Carson contributed 10 points off the bench, but it wasn’t enough. The Sky’s consistency and depth proved too much for Phoenix.
When the playoffs arrived, the story repeated itself. In a single-elimination first-round game, the Sky trounced the Mercury 105-76, ending Phoenix’s postseason run. Chicago’s journey eventually ended against the Las Vegas Aces, who narrowly won 93-92 before facing the Washington Mystics.
So, why did the Mercury struggle so much against the Sky? Was it Chicago’s strategic brilliance, or did Phoenix’s star-heavy lineup lack the balance needed to adapt? What do you think—was this a case of the Sky’s rise or the Mercury’s missteps? Let us know in the comments!
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