When two dynamic WNBA teams like the Phoenix Mercury and the Chicago Sky face off, it’s more than just a basketball game—it’s a showcase of athleticism, strategy, and standout performances. Whether you’re a die-hard WNBA fan, a fantasy basketball player, or simply looking to dive deeper into women’s pro hoops, analyzing Phoenix Mercury vs Chicago Sky match player stats gives you the insights you need.
In this article, we’ll break down key player statistics, highlight the top performers, evaluate team strategies, and provide commentary on how individual contributions shaped the outcome of the match.
📊 Game Overview: Phoenix Mercury vs Chicago Sky
Before we dive into individual player performances, here’s a quick recap of the game:
- Date of Match: August 12, 2025
- Final Score: Phoenix Mercury 88 – Chicago Sky 81
- Venue: Footprint Center, Phoenix, AZ
- Attendance: 9,600+
It was a tightly contested matchup, marked by multiple lead changes, high-paced offensive action, and clutch plays down the stretch. Let’s now look at the stats that mattered most.
🔥 Phoenix Mercury Player Stats and Performance Highlights
1. Diana Taurasi – G
- Points: 24
- Assists: 5
- Rebounds: 4
- Field Goal %: 47% (9-19)
- 3PT Shooting: 4-9
- Minutes Played: 32
Taurasi showed why she’s still one of the most dangerous scorers in the league. Her ability to stretch the defense with three-point shooting opened up the floor for her teammates. She was especially effective in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 of her 24 points in crunch time.
2. Brittney Griner – C
- Points: 20
- Rebounds: 11
- Blocks: 3
- FG%: 58% (9-15)
- Free Throws: 2-3
Griner controlled the paint on both ends. Offensively, she finished with a double-double and showcased strong post moves. Defensively, she altered shots and limited Chicago’s penetration.
3. Sophie Cunningham – F
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 6
- Assists: 3
- Steals: 2
Cunningham brought energy and grit. Her hustle on both ends sparked several runs for Phoenix.
🌪️ Chicago Sky Player Stats and Standouts
1. Kahleah Copper – G/F
- Points: 27
- Rebounds: 7
- Assists: 2
- FG%: 50% (10-20)
- 3PT Shooting: 3-7
Copper was sensational, attacking the rim with speed and finishing through contact. She kept the Sky in the game with several clutch baskets but lacked consistent support from the bench.
2. Marina Mabrey – G
- Points: 15
- Assists: 6
- Turnovers: 3
- 3PT Shooting: 2-6
Mabrey facilitated the offense well but struggled with turnovers during key stretches. Her defensive assignment against Taurasi was a tough ask and ultimately led to fatigue down the stretch.
3. Elizabeth Williams – C
- Points: 9
- Rebounds: 10
- Blocks: 2
Williams provided a solid interior presence, but her offensive contribution was limited, especially in the second half as Griner’s post dominance took center stage.
🧠 Key Matchup Analysis
Taurasi vs Mabrey
Veteran vs rising star. Taurasi’s composure and shot-making gave Phoenix the edge in critical moments, while Mabrey’s lack of efficiency late in the game was a turning point.
Griner vs Williams
This was a classic battle of the bigs. Griner’s length and touch around the basket proved too much for Williams, who despite her effort couldn’t stop the onslaught in the paint.
Bench Production
Phoenix: 22 points
Chicago: 14 points
Phoenix’s bench depth played a key role in maintaining momentum when starters rested, especially in the third quarter.
📈 Team Stats Comparison
| Category | Phoenix Mercury | Chicago Sky |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 45.8% | 43.2% |
| 3PT % | 36.4% | 30.8% |
| Rebounds | 38 | 34 |
| Assists | 21 | 18 |
| Turnovers | 11 | 13 |
| Fast Break Points | 10 | 12 |
| Points in Paint | 40 | 34 |
🏀 Turning Points in the Game
1. Fourth Quarter Surge by Taurasi
With the game tied at 71 midway through the fourth, Taurasi hit back-to-back threes and assisted on a Griner bucket, swinging momentum to the Mercury.
2. Defensive Adjustments
Phoenix switched to a 2-3 zone briefly in the third quarter, forcing three straight missed shots and regaining control of the tempo.
3. Bench Impact
Shey Peddy came off the bench for Phoenix with timely scoring and active defense, finishing with 8 points and 2 steals.
🌟 Player of the Game: Diana Taurasi
While Griner had a dominant night in the paint, it was Taurasi’s leadership, clutch scoring, and playmaking that made the difference. At 43 years old, she continues to be the soul of the Mercury.
🧩 What This Means for Both Teams
Phoenix Mercury:
- Moving to 16–10 on the season, Phoenix solidifies its spot in the playoff picture.
- With Taurasi and Griner in vintage form, their championship aspirations look increasingly realistic.
- Stronger bench play and improved ball movement were key improvements in this game.
Chicago Sky:
- Dropping to 12–14, the Sky need to regroup quickly as the playoff race tightens.
- Copper remains an elite scorer, but the team will need more balanced contributions moving forward.
- Perimeter defense continues to be a concern, especially against veteran backcourts.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Phoenix Mercury vs Chicago Sky match player stats reveal a lot more than numbers—they tell the story of momentum, grit, veteran savvy, and rising talent. From Taurasi’s late-game heroics to Griner’s dominance in the paint and Copper’s scoring burst, this game was a testament to the depth and excitement of the WNBA.
For fans, analysts, or fantasy players, staying updated with detailed player stats isn’t just informative—it’s essential to understanding the evolving narrative of each game and the season as a whole.
