PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Washington Mystics, 68-62, with defensive pressure and rookies stepping up fueling the team’s victory.
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Phoenix Mercury’s Monique Akoa-Makani dribbles against the Washington Mystics on May 27, 2025. Credits – Hannah Hayworth
After a rough first half of missed layups, missed shots, and tough defense by the Mystics, Kathryn Westbeld’s three-pointer with 1:30 left in the fourth turned the tide for Phoenix.
Monique Akoa-Makani scored 13 points with a go-ahead three-pointer with 1:11 left in the fourth. Makani added two more points on free throws to extend the lead in the final seconds.
Phoenix Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas, Kathryn Westbeld and Monique Akoa-Makani speak to the media after the game on May 25, 2025. Credits – Hannah Hayworth
Westbeld told the media after the game she couldn’t let missed opportunities stick.
“It’s all about the next shot,” Westbeld said.
Monique Akoa Makani drops a three to help the Phoenix Mercury take a 68-62 win against the Washington Mystics.
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Makani agreed with her teammate and said it’s all about letting the game keep going.
“Just keep playing the game,” Makani said. “Because it’s a game at the end of the day.”
Defensive Pressure
Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards (24) has the ball stripped away by Phoenix Mercury forward Kathryn Westbeld (24) and guard Sami Whitcomb (33) during the first quarter at PHX Arena May 25, 2025.
In a game where Mercury’s offense was quiet, its defense dominated Washington. The Mystics had 30 turnovers and 15 steals against them. Head coach Nate Tibbetts told reporters after the game he was impressed with the defensive effort and fight. He mentioned he had never seen so many missed that many layups, making the defense a focal point in the win.
“Our defense won us that game,” Tibbetts said.
Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts speaks to the media after the game on May 25, 2025. Credits – Hannah Hayworth
On To The Next
The Mercury will stay home to square off against the Chicago Sky on Tuesday, May 27 at 7 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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