The Phoenix Mercury are in a tight race for the eighth playoff seed, despite their 8-17 record and a recent four-game losing streak. This situation highlights the fine line between success and failure in the WNBA, where every game matters. Coach Nate Tibbetts emphasizes the importance of every game, stating, 'We got 19 to go and we’ve been talking about it. Every game is a big game.'
One of the key lessons from the losing streak is the impact of turnovers. Since July 7, the Mercury have allowed 22.8 points per game off turnovers, the second-most in the WNBA. This is particularly concerning, as it was evident in the 48-point loss to the Las Vegas Aces on July 11, where the Aces scored 24 points off 17 turnovers. However, there was a glimmer of hope in the July 13 meeting against the Minnesota Lynx, where the Mercury turned the ball over only four times in the second half of a 104-100 loss.
Guard Kahleah Copper reflects on the team's performance, saying, 'We just got to see our toughness (against Minnesota). We weren’t satisfied with how we played in Vegas, but we came out swinging. Our backs were really against the wall, but we were embarrassed about (our game against the Aces), and we should’ve been.'
The Mercury are now looking ahead to their next two games against the 6-18 Connecticut Sun. However, they are also keeping an eye on the bigger picture. Copper emphasizes, 'It’s not just this weekend that’s important, it’s from here on out.' This mindset is crucial for making a push towards the playoffs.
The Mercury and Sun have both struggled recently, with each team going 4-6 over the past 10 games. Both teams have dealt with significant injuries, including Aneesah Morrow, Connecticut’s top rebounder, who has missed the past four games due to reconditioning and is doubtful for July 17. Guard Saniya Rivers has also missed the past two games due to a left ankle sprain, but is probable to return.
For the Mercury, the loss of 6-foot-4 center Natasha Mack to a foot injury on June 22 has been detrimental. However, there is a glimmer of hope as Mack could return before the All-Star break begins on July 23, according to Tibbetts. This would be a significant boost for the team, especially when facing Sun center and Mercury fan favorite Brittney Griner, who has averaged 24.5 points in her past two games.
The Mercury's roster moves, including the waiver of forward Marta Suarez and the re-signing of Suarez to a second 7-day contract, have been strategic. These moves are aimed at clearing space for Mack's potential return and managing the team's depth. Despite the challenges, the Mercury remain in the mix for the eighth seed, but their hopes could be fleeting. The team's ability to clean up turnovers and maintain toughness will be crucial in their push for the playoffs.
In my opinion, the Mercury's situation is a fascinating example of the fine line between success and failure in sports. Every game matters, and the team's ability to learn from their mistakes and adapt will be key to their playoff push. The return of Natasha Mack could be a game-changer, but the Mercury must also find a way to minimize turnovers and maintain their toughness. The next few games will be crucial in determining their fate, and the team's mindset will be essential in their pursuit of the playoffs.
