In a demanding away fixture, the Phoenix Mercury concluded their back-to-back schedule with a defeat, falling 95-79 to the Golden State Valkyries. This encounter, played in the vibrant atmosphere of the Valkyries' home opener, presented a different challenge for the Mercury, who had just come off an intense battle against the Las Vegas Aces.
Valkyries Dominate Home Opener Against Mercury
On May 10, 2026, the Phoenix Mercury journeyed to San Francisco, California, to face the Golden State Valkyries at the iconic Chase Center. This particular game, occurring just one day after a grueling match against the Las Vegas Aces, proved to be an uphill battle for the Mercury. The Valkyries, energized by their home crowd on opening night, established early control, at one point building a commanding 18-point lead in the first half. Phoenix, under the guidance of head coach Nate Tibbetts, mounted a valiant effort to regain momentum in the third quarter, successfully narrowing the deficit to a mere one-possession game. However, persistent foul trouble and relentless defensive pressure from the Golden State squad ultimately allowed the Valkyries to secure their victory. Despite the loss, several Mercury players showcased notable performances. Alyssa Thomas delivered her first double-double of the season and nearly achieved a triple-double, while Natasha Mack impressively landed her inaugural career 3-pointer. Jovana Nogic continued her strong start to the season by scoring double figures in her first two games, and bench players Noemie Brochant and Kiana Williams demonstrated their potent shooting capabilities. The Mercury, now with a 1-1 record, are set to return home for their own opening night on Tuesday, May 12, where they will face the Minnesota Lynx in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2025 WNBA Semi-Finals.
This road trip served as a valuable learning experience for the Phoenix Mercury. It highlighted the demanding nature of WNBA competition and the necessity for adaptability in their game plan. While the outcome was not in their favor, the team's ability to fight back and the individual successes of several players offer positive indicators for their ongoing season development. The upcoming home opener against the Minnesota Lynx will be a crucial test, providing an opportunity for the Mercury to apply the lessons learned and continue building cohesion as a formidable unit.
