The Phoenix Mercury finally found the breakthrough they had been searching for.

After enduring a frustrating seven-game losing streak, the Mercury traveled to Seattle on June 3, 2026, and delivered one of their most complete efforts of the season, defeating the Seattle Storm 72-68 at Climate Pledge Arena. The victory not only halted Phoenix's slide but also showcased the team's resilience, defensive intensity, and ability to execute in crunch time.

For a team looking to regain confidence and momentum, this win could prove to be a turning point.

Mercury Strike First
Phoenix came out with energy from the opening tip, establishing control early through aggressive defense and strong rebounding.

The Mercury outscored Seattle 21-15 in the first quarter, forcing difficult shots and limiting second-chance opportunities. While neither team shot particularly well, Phoenix consistently won the hustle plays and controlled the tempo.

Seattle responded in the second quarter, but Phoenix maintained its composure and carried a 36-33 lead into halftime.

Despite shooting just 35 percent during the first half, the Mercury found ways to stay ahead by attacking the basket and drawing fouls. That aggressive mindset would become a major storyline throughout the game.

Storm Rally in the Third Quarter
The Storm appeared poised to take over during the third quarter.

Seattle guard Natisha Hiedeman ignited the offense, scoring 10 points in the period and helping the Storm erase Phoenix's lead. The Storm outscored the Mercury 22-16 in the quarter and entered the final period with a 55-52 advantage.

For much of the season, Phoenix had struggled to close games when momentum shifted against them. This time was different.

Instead of folding under pressure, the Mercury answered with their best basketball of the night.

Fourth Quarter Belongs to Phoenix
The final ten minutes showcased the toughness that Phoenix fans have been waiting to see.

With just over five minutes remaining, Kahleah Copper scored to give the Mercury a 61-59 lead. It would be a lead Phoenix would never surrender.

Veteran star DeWanna Bonner then delivered several clutch plays, knocking down a jumper, finishing a fast-break layup, and converting a free throw during a crucial stretch that extended the Mercury advantage.

Phoenix built a seven-point cushion with under three minutes remaining and then relied on disciplined defense and free-throw shooting to finish the job.

Seattle continued to fight and cut the deficit late, but Copper calmly knocked down four consecutive free throws in the closing seconds to secure the victory.

The Mercury outscored the Storm 20-13 in the fourth quarter, proving they could execute when the game mattered most.

Natasha Mack Delivers Career Night
One of the biggest stories of the game was the outstanding performance from Natasha Mack.

Mack recorded a career-high 16 points while grabbing 10 rebounds to earn a double-double. She also protected the rim with three blocked shots and provided a physical presence throughout the contest.

​Her effort on both ends of the floor helped Phoenix dominate the rebounding battle and control the paint.

Free Throws Make the Difference
Although Seattle actually made more three-pointers and shot a slightly better percentage from the field, the game was won at the free-throw line.

Phoenix relentlessly attacked the basket and forced the Storm defense into difficult situations.

The result was a massive advantage in free-throw attempts.

The Mercury converted 21-of-27 free throws while Seattle managed just 3-of-5 from the stripe.

In a game decided by only four points, that eighteen-point difference at the foul line proved decisive.
Phoenix also won the rebounding battle 44-34, creating additional opportunities and limiting Seattle's second chances.

Seattle's Bright Spots
Despite the loss, Seattle received strong performances from several players.

Awa Fam led the Storm with 18 points while shooting efficiently inside the arc. Natisha Hiedeman added 15 points and nearly fueled a comeback with her third-quarter scoring outburst.

However, Seattle's offense stalled during the fourth quarter, managing just 13 points when it mattered most.
The Storm's inability to generate free throws and finish possessions ultimately cost them a chance to snap their own losing streak.

What the Win Means for Phoenix
The victory improved Phoenix to 3-8 and provided a much-needed confidence boost for a team that has battled adversity throughout the early portion of the season.

​More importantly, the Mercury demonstrated several characteristics that can help them become more competitive moving forward:

For a veteran-led roster featuring Kahleah Copper, DeWanna Bonner, and Alyssa Thomas, this win served as a reminder of what the Mercury can accomplish when they play with discipline and intensity.

​The seven-game losing streak is over, and Phoenix now has an opportunity to build momentum as the season continues.
​
​Past Mercury Articles:
​Minnesota Lynx Dominate Phoenix Mercury 111-77 as Winning Streak Reaches Five Games 
Mercury Collapse in Third Quarter as Liberty Pull Away 84-74 in New York 

Mercury Coverage Home 

Phoenix Mercury Home