The Phoenix Mercury opened their preseason with a thrilling victory over the Seattle Storm on Sunday. The Mercury, led by Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, were able to defeat the Storm by a score of 87-80.
The Mercury started the game off strong, with Taurasi and Griner combining for 22 points in the first quarter. The Storm were able to keep up with the Mercury, but the Mercury’s defense was able to hold them off. The Mercury were able to take a seven-point lead into halftime.
In the second half, the Mercury continued to dominate, outscoring the Storm by 15 points in the third quarter. The Storm were able to make a late push in the fourth quarter, but the Mercury were able to hold them off and secure the win.
Taurasi led the way for the Mercury, finishing with 24 points and seven assists. Griner also had a strong performance, finishing with 18 points and nine rebounds. DeWanna Bonner added 17 points and seven rebounds for the Mercury.
The Storm were led by Breanna Stewart, who finished with 18 points and nine rebounds. Jewell Loyd added 16 points and five assists for the Storm.
The Mercury will look to continue their strong play in their next preseason game against the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday. The Storm will look to bounce back when they take on the Las Vegas Aces on Wednesday.