The WNBA Playoffs delivered a shocker last night as the Phoenix Mercury ousted the defending champion New York Liberty in a nail-biting Game 3, clinching a 79-73 victory and advancing to the next round. The Mercury’s gritty performance on their home court left Liberty fans stunned and set the stage for a high-stakes showdown with the Minnesota Lynx for a spot in the 2025 WNBA Finals.
Mercury’s Home-Court Magic Seals the Deal
Phoenix entered Game 3 with momentum after a dominant Game 2 win, and they didn’t disappoint their home crowd. The Mercury’s physicality in the paint and relentless rebounding proved decisive, especially in the closing minutes. With the series tied 1–1, every possession felt like a battle, but Phoenix’s ability to control the boards and force tough shots from New York made the difference.
The final five minutes were a showcase of playoff intensity, with both teams trading clutch baskets and defensive stops. Ultimately, Phoenix’s composure and execution under pressure allowed them to pull away, sending the Liberty packing and keeping their championship hopes alive.
Liberty’s Title Defense Falls Short
For the Liberty, the loss marks a bitter end to a season that began with championship aspirations. After a thrilling overtime win in Game 1, New York struggled to match Phoenix’s energy and physicality in the next two games. Turnovers and missed opportunities on the offensive glass haunted the Liberty, especially as the Mercury ramped up their defensive pressure.
Despite flashes of brilliance from New York’s star players, the team couldn’t overcome Phoenix’s size and second-chance points. The Liberty’s inability to close out possessions without fouling and their struggles to generate easy transition buckets proved costly in the winner-take-all matchup.
What’s Next: Mercury Eye the Finals
With this victory, the Phoenix Mercury advance to face the Minnesota Lynx for a coveted spot in the 2025 WNBA Finals. The Mercury’s balanced scoring and dominance inside make them a formidable opponent, and their playoff experience could be the X-factor as the stakes get even higher.
For New York, the offseason will be a time for reflection and regrouping. The Liberty have the talent to contend again, but this loss will sting as they look to reclaim their place atop the league.
Key Takeaways
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Phoenix Mercury advance after a 79-73 win over the New York Liberty in Game 3 of the first round.
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Mercury’s rebounding and interior play were decisive, especially in crunch time.
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Liberty’s title defense ends after failing to match Phoenix’s physicality and execution.
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Next up: Mercury vs. Lynx for a trip to the WNBA Finals.
The WNBA Playoffs are heating up, and if last night’s battle is any indication, fans are in for more drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments as the road to the championship continues.
Sources
1. FINAL 5 MINUTES of Liberty vs. Mercury Game 3 was a battle ⚔️
2. Liberty vs Mercury Game 3 Prediction & Odds - TheSpread.com
3. Phoenix Mercury vs. New York Liberty | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS
4. New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury: Start Time, Streaming Live ...
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