Overview
- Phoenix beat the Portland Fire 78-72 after a road game that closed Friday with DeWanna Bonner scoring a season-high 19 points and Natasha Mack adding 16.
- The Mercury played without starters Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper because of left calf and left hip injuries, forcing veterans and role players to absorb larger offensive and playmaking duties.
- Jovana Nogic moved into a facilitator role with nine points and six assists and made Phoenix’s final field goal with 2:46 left, helping the team hold a slim late lead.
- Portland’s mistakes decided the game as the Fire committed 20 turnovers that gifted Phoenix transition chances while Phoenix closed the final three minutes by making 10 of 12 free throws to secure the win.
- The result moves Phoenix to 4-8 and sends them to play Golden State next, and it underscores a developing Mercury identity that leans on bench depth and late-game execution as key tests continue.