Phoenix — The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 78-72 on Sunday night, thanks to a dominant performance from Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi.
Griner played well from start to finish leading the way with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Taurasi chipped in 22 points and five assists, which was enough to earn their first win in the Western Conference this season. The White Mamba is within striking distance of the 10,000 career points mark, with fewer than 100 points remaining.
Griner’s dunk in the second quarter was the highlight of the night. The former Baylor star caught a lob pass and threw down a powerful one-handed slam. This was her first dunk since the 2020 season.
AIR TIME! BRITTNEY GRINER HAS THE FIRST DUNK OF THE 2023 SEASON! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/9Kwg0hJCjp
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) July 9, 2023
The Sparks were led by Nneka Ogwumike, who had 20 points, 14 rebounds and three assists.
The win was a big one for the Mercury, who are still trying to find their mojo this season, but the difference tonight was players were healthy. Phoenix is currently in last place in the Western Conference, but this win could help them get back on track.
The Mercury travel to face the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday.
The Aces are the defending champions and hold the best record in the WNBA, so this will be a tough test for the Mercury.
