LAS VEGAS – The long road has led to the grandest stage of them all for the Phoenix Mercury, the WNBA Finals. Phoenix has a real chance of lifting the trophy, and it comes from of three major reasons.
Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2), forward Satou Sabally (0) and forward Alyssa Thomas (25) celebrate their win over the New York Liberty 79-73 to win the series during Game Three of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs first round at PHX Arena on Sept. 19, 2025, in Phoenix. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The biggest and most obvious point is getting their two stars, Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, in the groove. Not only was Alyssa Thomas in the MVP conversation, but she also set the WNBA record for the most triple-doubles in a single season with eight. Their one-two punch, including Satou Sabally, has to be on display for the Mercury to make a run; when Sabally is on, good luck finding an answer. The defensive intensity and three-level scoring ability she brings have elevated the Mercury offense to one of the best in the league.
Sep 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Lynx in the second half during game one of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
The leadership surrounding this team is apparent and has been one of the main reasons for this team’s success. Whether it’s Kahleah Coppers’ work ethic and intensity that sets the tone, or DeWanna Bonners’ voice and teaching skills that have helped lead the way since her arrival back in Phoenix, the Mercury are well set up to do well in the finals with the leaders they have on their roster.
Sep 6, 2025; Uncasville, Connecticut, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) shoots for three points against the Connecticut Sun in the second half at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
If they can open up their offense by embracing the three-ball, they will be able to put a little more stress on the Aces’ defense. Sami Whitcomb has been the go-to when in need of big shots, and if she continues to shine when it matters, the Mercury will be in a good spot to command the lead.
you already know what day it is pic.twitter.com/lALPaNHG4O
— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) October 3, 2025
As they get ready for their sixth overall WNBA Finals appearance, the Phoenix Mercury have all the tools to possibly make a run for their fourth WNBA title. Tip off for Game 1 is tonight in Las Vegas is at 5:00 pm PT.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Mercury for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
