PHOENIX — Defensive breakdowns and an inability to contain the Minnesota Lynx’s backcourt became major factors in the Phoenix Mercury’s 111-77 loss in their Commissioner’s Cup opener.
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Jun 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Noemie Brochant (1) shoots against Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Minnesota took control early and never faltered, repeatedly turning Phoenix mistakes into easy scoring opportunities. Turnovers, a fast pace in transition and decisive scoring runs prevented the Mercury from establishing any rhythm.
What began as a competitive matchup quickly turned into a one-sided affair as Phoenix struggled to slow Minnesota’s ball movement and perimeter attack.
The Lynx’s guards, Olivia Miles and Courtney Williams, were difficult to contain. Miles’ combination of scoring and playmaking, along with Williams’ explosive scoring night, consistently penetrated the defense and forced Phoenix into difficult rotations.
Jun 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Olivia Miles (5) and Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) slap hands during the second half of the game against the Phoenix Mercury at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Miles ended the night with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting from the field and added nine assists, while Williams posted a 30-point performance.
It wasn’t just hot shooting from Minnesota that created problems. The Lynx consistently generated quality possessions through ball pressure and transition opportunities, exposing defensive lapses and forcing mistakes. They generated 10 steals, five blocks, and 14 turnovers for 23 points.
On the Mercury’s side, Kahleah Copper once again led the team in scoring with 18 points, followed by Noemie Brochant’s career-high 11 points and Monique Akoa Makani’s 10 points. As a club, they shot 34% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc.
The loss continued a troubling trend for Phoenix.
Jun 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) reacts after making a three point basket against the Phoenix Mercury during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
The Mercury are now 2-8 after losing their sixth straight game, tied with the Connecticut Sun for the second-worst record in the WNBA. After entering the season with expectations of competing near the top of the league, Monday’s loss underscored a recurring challenge against elite opponents. The Mercury have struggled to contain dynamic guard play while maintaining defensive discipline for four quarters.
With the first quarter of the season nearing its end, the Mercury will need to find answers quickly. For a team with championship aspirations, solving its defensive issues against elite competition could become the defining challenge of the season.
“We weren’t close tonight… we’ve battled in some games, and tonight we did not.”
Nate Tibbetts did not like the teams effort in tonight’s game. pic.twitter.com/uf2cOAzv5h
— PHNX Mercury (@PHNX_Mercury) June 2, 2026
The Mercury will now go on a four-game road trip, heading to Seattle first to take on the Storm for the second game of the Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday, June 3, 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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