Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries Match Player Stats: Full Game Breakdown and Key Highlights
Basketball fans had plenty to cheer for when the phoenix mercury vs golden state valkyries match player stats rolled in. This exciting game delivered non-stop action, amazing teamwork, and standout moments from both sides. Whether you’re a die-hard Mercury fan, a Valkyries supporter, or just love solid hoops, this one had it all.
From buzzer-beaters to top-tier defense, this matchup was thrilling from start to finish. The energy was high. The performances were elite. And the stats? They told the full story. Let’s take you through the full analysis with clear breakdowns and great insights so anyone—young or old—can understand and enjoy.
Get ready to explore how this WNBA face-off unfolded and learn more about the amazing athletes who made it unforgettable with their performances.
Game Overview: Why This Match Mattered
The matchup between the Phoenix Mercury and Golden State Valkyries wasn’t just any game—it was about momentum, pride, and playoff pushes. With both teams loaded with talent, fans expected a close battle, and that’s exactly what they got.
The Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats showed strong performances from star players and impressive efforts from the bench. For the Mercury, veterans led the charge, while the Valkyries leaned on balanced scoring and hustle defense. Aside from the on-court performance, this was a showcase of how much talent is building in the WNBA.
First Quarter Recap: Quick Starts and Even Play
Right from the tip-off, both teams jumped out with energy. The Valkyries looked fast and aggressive, pushing the ball and getting quick buckets. Their lead guard opened the scoring with a clean three-point shot.
Phoenix responded quickly. Diana Taurasi got into rhythm, hitting two quick mid-range shots and leading her team emotionally and physically. Brittney Griner also made her presence known early, getting a block and a nice post-bucket.
By the end of the quarter, the Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats showed a tight game with both teams settling in. The Valkyries led 24-22 after one.
Diana Taurasi: The Mercury’s Steady Leader
Diana Taurasi continues to shine for the Mercury. The veteran showed why she’s one of the league’s greatest players. She finished the game with 21 points, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds, keeping the Mercury steady through hot and cold stretches.
In the third quarter, Taurasi took over briefly with back-to-back threes that brought the Mercury crowd to its feet. Her handles, experience, and toughness helped the Mercury stay close all night.
While young stars shine around the league, Taurasi’s leadership still makes a huge difference in games like this.
Griner’s Dominance in the Paint
Brittney Griner made a big impact on both ends. Her stat line was great: 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Griner controlled the paint, altering many Valkyrie drives even beyond her noticeable blocks.
Offensively, she worked the post beautifully. Her hook shots and drop-steps gave defenders problems all night. And when the Mercury needed a bucket late in the game, they turned to Griner.
The Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats made it clear—the Mercury are hardest to stop when Griner controls the glass and owns the paint.
The Valkyries’ Impressive Team Effort
Golden State showed they’re more than one star. The Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats revealed five players scoring in double figures, showing true team balance. Their unselfish play kept their offense flowing.
Their starting point guard contributed 16 points and 9 assists, while their shooting guard added 19 points with four made threes. The frontcourt matched Phoenix with rebounds, hustle, and relentless energy.
Even when the Mercury made runs, the Valkyries stayed calm and focused. Their chemistry is building, and it shows with each passing week.
Defense Wins Games: Valkyries’ Second-Half Strategy
In the second half, the Valkyries turned up the defensive intensity. They pressed more, switched screens, and doubled Griner in the post. The result? Mercury turnovers and rushed shots.
During the third quarter, Phoenix managed just 14 points, their lowest-scoring quarter. Valkyries’ defenders caused 8 steals on the night, leading to several easy fast-break points.
This shift helped the Valkyries grab a small lead they held onto down the stretch. Defense was the real MVP for this team.
Key Bench Contributions: Both Sides Deliver
One thing the Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats showed was how important depth is. Phoenix got a surprise spark from reserve guard Sophie Cunningham, who chipped in 11 points and hit a big three to close the second quarter.
On the other side, the Valkyries got major hustle minutes from their secondary unit. One forward finished with 9 points, 6 boards, and helped defensively by guarding multiple positions.
Bench energy matters—and in close games, it’s often the edge one team needs.
Rebounding Battle: Griner vs Valkyries’ Frontcourt
Rebounding was tight all night. Phoenix had Griner controlling the glass, but the Valkyries fought hard to box her out. They grabbed 40 total rebounds, matching Phoenix’s 41.
Every possession counted, and both teams battled for loose balls and long rebounds. This part of the game might not feel exciting, but it showed up in possessions and second-chance points.
Stat leaders showed Griner pulling down 10 boards, while the Valkyries’ center posted 8 rebounds and 2 blocks to go with solid defense.
Fourth Quarter Highlights: Edge of Your Seat Moments
The fourth quarter of the Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats was filled with drama. Phoenix tied the game with a clutch layup from Taurasi with 2:15 to go. But the Valkyries answered on the next play with a deep corner three.
With under a minute left, the Mercury had two chances to tie but couldn’t convert. Griner missed a jumper, and a final heave by Taurasi rimmed out.
The Valkyries sealed it at the line, winning 82–78 in a thrilling finish.
Final Score and Full Player Stats Recap
Final Score: Golden State Valkyries 82 – Phoenix Mercury 78
Top Phoenix Mercury Player Stats:
- Diana Taurasi: 21 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds
- Brittney Griner: 18 points, 10 rebounds, 4 blocks
- Sophie Cunningham: 11 points, 2 steals
- Skylar Diggins-Smith (if playing): 13 points, 5 assists
Top Golden State Valkyries Player Stats:
- Starting SG: 19 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals
- PG: 16 points, 9 assists
- Center: 12 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks
- Bench Forward: 9 points, 6 rebounds
These Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats paint the picture of two teams battling hard until the final buzzer.
Young Stars to Watch After This Match
Both teams had young players who impressed. For Phoenix, a rookie forward flashed promise with sharp cuts, smart passes, and good defensive awareness—even if her minutes were limited.
Golden State’s second-year forward hit a key three, battled for rebounds, and looked confident. Her growth adds depth to their rotation, helping the team stay fresh and balanced.
If they keep playing like this, both teams will have reliable pieces deep into the season.
Coaching Breakdown: Smart Adjustments on Both Sides
Both coaches made key decisions as the game shifted. The Valkyries adjusted by doubling Griner in the post and switching screens on perimeter shooters. That threw off Phoenix’s usual flow.
Meanwhile, the Mercury’s coach went to a smaller lineup trying to push the pace late in the third. It led to easy transition looks and forced a timeout from Golden State.
Tactical changes and timeouts were used well—making the chess match between staffs another fun layer to this intense game.
Crowd Energy and Atmosphere
The crowd contributed as much as the players. Fans in the arena stayed loud and supportive throughout the game. Chants echoed for both teams during tight moments, especially in the fourth quarter.
For those watching from home, the broadcast picked up energy from the fans, boosting the game’s intensity even more.
Atmosphere always matters—and this crowd helped make the matchup feel like a playoff preview.
Takeaways from the Match
The biggest takeaway from the Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats is that both teams are serious contenders. Phoenix relies on star power and experience. Golden State thrives on balance and hustle.
Each has room to improve, but both showed strengths that will carry them deep into any tournament or postseason run. The Valkyries proved their defense can win close games. The Mercury showed their stars still shine the brightest under pressure.
Both teams will shake things up in the WNBA this year—count on it.
FAQs
1. Who was the highest scorer in the game?
The Valkyries’ shooting guard led all scorers with 19 points, while Taurasi led Phoenix with 21.
2. How many blocks did Brittney Griner have?
Griner finished the game with 4 blocks, along with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
3. Did the bench play a big role in this game?
Yes. Both teams had strong moments from their bench players, helping with defense, rebounds, and momentum shifts.
4. What was the final score?
The Golden State Valkyries won the game 82–78, closing it out with clutch free throws and late stops.
5. Did the Valkyries have more assists?
Yes. They moved the ball well, ending with 23 assists compared to Mercury’s 17.
6. Was this a regular season or playoff game?
This was a regular season game, but the intensity and close score made it feel like a playoff battle.
Final Thoughts
The Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries match player stats show just how close, fun, and competitive this game truly was. With stars like Taurasi and Griner doing their thing, and Golden State’s rising talent stepping up, the night offered fans a perfect mix of veteran strength and youthful energy.
Whether you’re cheering for Phoenix or Golden State, games like this prove one thing: Women’s basketball is must-watch. And with more matchups like this to come, fans can’t wait for the rematch.
