Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks Match Player Stats: Full Game Recap and Top Performer Highlights
Basketball fans were treated to an exciting face-off as two WNBA powerhouses, the phoenix mercury vs los angeles sparks match player stats went head-to-head on the hardwood. From deep threes to strong defense, every quarter was filled with action, hustle, and standout plays.
This game had it all—veteran leaders, promising young stars, and moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats revealed just how closely matched these teams were, with players stepping up big in key moments.
In this detailed breakdown, we’ll walk you through everything that happened game by game, highlight the top player stats, and offer insights you can’t get from a scoreboard alone. Whether you’re new to the WNBA or a longtime fan, this guide is for you.
Let’s dive in.
Game Preview: Why This Match Was So Hyped
Whenever the Phoenix Mercury and Los Angeles Sparks meet, it’s more than just a game—it’s a rivalry. These two franchises are some of the most recognized names in the WNBA. Both teams have a proud history, strong followings, and a drive to win every time they share the court.
This latest matchup meant more than just another win or loss. Each team is fighting to move up in the standings and prove they’re playoff-ready. That’s why fans and analysts were eager to check out the Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats before and after the game.
With names like Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, and Nneka Ogwumike on the floor, there was no shortage of big-time talent.
First Quarter: Sparks Come Out Firing
The Sparks wasted no time taking control in the first quarter. With quick ball movement and sharp shooting, they jumped out to a strong start. Jordin Canada got into rhythm early, draining a mid-range jumper and following it up with a steal and fast-break layup.
Nneka Ogwumike added to the energy with tough drives to the hoop and rebounding on both ends. She had 6 points and 3 rebounds in just the first quarter alone.
The Mercury struggled early, missing a few open shots. But near the end of the quarter, Diana Taurasi sparked a mini-comeback with a pair of deep threes.
Score after one: Sparks 22 – Mercury 17
Diana Taurasi: Still a Legend
No breakdown of the Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats would be complete without a shoutout to Diana Taurasi. The WNBA’s all-time leading scorer reminded everyone why she’s a legend.
She finished the game with 23 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds. Whether it was a tough step-back three or a patient drive through the lane, Taurasi brought leadership on and off the court.
She scored 10 points in the third quarter alone, helping bring Phoenix within striking distance. Her playmaking and calm under pressure were key when the Mercury needed a boost.
Nneka Ogwumike: Pure Hustle and Heart
The Sparks got a big-time performance from veteran forward Nneka Ogwumike. She finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds, securing yet another double-double in her already impressive WNBA career.
Nneka was everywhere—fighting for rebounds, running the break, and banging inside for position. Her strength and IQ are unmatched, and she led the Sparks both physically and emotionally throughout the game.
She also played strong defense, holding up against post moves from Brittney Griner and rotating to help teammates cover shooters. Her impact showed up all across the Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats.
Brittney Griner: A Force in the Paint
Even during a tough contest, Brittney Griner showed why she’s one of the best centers in the league. Her final numbers: 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
She made opponents think twice before attacking the rim and stood tall against double teams. Offensively, Griner worked the post, receiving crisp entry passes and finishing with power.
In the third quarter, she hit two big hook shots that brought Phoenix within one score. Her presence continued to give the Mercury confidence, even as the Sparks tried to wear her down.
Sparks’ Defense Sets the Tone
One of the biggest takeaways from the Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats was how tough Los Angeles played on defense. They forced 15 turnovers and converted them into 18 fast-break points.
Jordin Canada and Lexie Brown were hounding ball-handlers on the perimeter, while the bigs hedged screens and protected the rim. The Mercury had a hard time getting clean looks, especially during the second and third quarters.
That defense not only helped the Sparks build a lead, it helped control the pace of the game. And in tight matchups like this, defense often means everything.
Bench Impact: Sparks Win the Depth Battle
A big part of the Sparks’ win came from their bench stepping up. Dearica Hamby provided high energy and added 12 points and 7 rebounds. She brought hustle, hustle, and more hustle—diving for loose balls, boxing out hard, and running the floor.
Phoenix’s bench struggled to make the same impact, scoring just 9 points combined. That difference showed in the fourth quarter when the starters needed rest. The Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats made it clear: LA’s bench played a bigger role in deciding the game.
Fourth Quarter Drama: Nail-Biting Finish
As we moved into the fourth quarter, things got intense. The Mercury made a late push, cutting the Sparks’ lead to just 2 points with three minutes left. Taurasi and Griner ran a pick-and-roll that led to a crowd-pleasing dunk.
But LA didn’t panic. Jordin Canada hit a key pull-up jumper, and Nneka grabbed a huge offensive rebound, leading to a second-chance bucket that gave the Sparks breathing room.
Final Score: Sparks 84 – Mercury 78
It was a game full of battles, and the final stats showed just how closely matched these two teams were.
Final Player Stats Recap
Top Phoenix Mercury Stats:
- Diana Taurasi: 23 pts, 5 ast, 3 reb
- Brittney Griner: 18 pts, 8 reb, 3 blk
- Moriah Jefferson: 9 pts, 4 ast
- Sophie Cunningham: 7 pts, 2 stl
Top Los Angeles Sparks Stats:
- Nneka Ogwumike: 19 pts, 11 reb
- Jordin Canada: 16 pts, 6 ast, 3 stl
- Dearica Hamby: 12 pts, 7 reb
- Lexie Brown: 10 pts, 2 ast
The Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats prove it was a fight until the end—and every point mattered.
Coaching Adjustments That Made a Difference
Both coaches had tough calls to make throughout the game. The Sparks focused on doubling Griner in the post and pushing the ball in transition. The Mercury made great halftime adjustments, shifting their offense to include more off-ball movement, which helped open up Taurasi for cleaner looks.
But Sparks coach Curt Miller deserves credit for trusting his bench, especially in the third quarter when many starters sat. His decisions gave the team fresh legs and defensive energy when it mattered most.
Crowd Energy Boosted the Battle
The arena energy was electric. Both home and visiting fans made noise throughout every run, especially late in the fourth. As Phoenix rallied late, cheers echoed for every shot made. Sparks fans roared when Ogwumike sealed the win with a final rebound and layup.
Crowd energy adds fuel to these games, and this one felt like a preview of playoff intensity. The back-and-forth really came alive in the final minutes.
What This Game Means Moving Forward
For the Sparks, this win builds momentum and confidence going deeper into the season. Jordin Canada has clearly taken a step up, and balancing stars like Nneka with rising talent sets them up for success.
For Phoenix, the loss is tough but full of positives. Taurasi is still leading, and Griner is finding her rhythm post-injury. If their bench can improve and shooters knock down open looks, they’ll remain a dangerous team.
The Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats show how strong both squads really are—and how important depth, hustle, and leadership can be.
FAQs About Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks Match Player Stats
1. Who was the top scorer in the game?
Diana Taurasi led all scorers with 23 points.
2. Did Nneka Ogwumike get a double-double?
Yes, she scored 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
3. How did Brittney Griner perform?
She finished with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
4. Which team won the rebound battle?
It was close, but the Sparks edged the Mercury slightly in total rebounds.
5. Who had the most assists?
Jordin Canada led the game with 6 assists.
6. What was the final score?
The Los Angeles Sparks won with a final score of 84–78.
Final Thoughts: Strength, Stars, and a Whole Lot of Heart
This Phoenix Mercury vs Los Angeles Sparks match player stats breakdown proves one thing—WNBA action never disappoints. From tight defense to clutch shots, both teams gave it their all. Fans got to see Hall of Famers-in-the-making on one side, and legends like Taurasi and Ogwumike on the other.
Games like this grow the sport. They showcase talent, inspire younger players, and remind everyone that women’s basketball shines just as bright as any other league. If you missed this game, make sure you catch their next match—it’s sure to be just as special.
