Phoenix Mercury put defensive identity back on display vs. Chicago Sky

The three-game stretch to start the season tested the Mercury core, with players still out and demanding quick turnarounds. Even with a close game against the Minnesota Lynx and a brewing comeback against the Golden State Valkyries, Phoenix hadn’t quite found its identity as changes were constant.

With two days away from competition, it gave the Mercury time to reset and go over what changes needed to be made.

Head coach Nate Tibbetts stressed that his team needed to reestablish their foundation defensively, to play with energy, passion and toughness. Offensively, to execute their game plans. Against a retooled Sky roster, Phoenix needed to establish control on both sides of the ball.

May 15, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) shields the ball from Chicago Sky guard Gabriela Jaquez (11) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Still, the Phoenix head coach felt the club’s chemistry was improving day by day.

“I feel like there’s still change coming,” Tibbetts said. “But not like at the rate that we had. I think we’re starting to solidify ourselves. I’m excited that we get a game here tonight. We need a couple more days, but we are getting definitely closer, and so I think all of us are feeling better about that.”

Phoenix Mercury HC Nate Tibbetts explains pregame what areas he wants his group to improve on against the Chicago Sky.

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Phoenix responded promptly.

Jovana Nogic was once again the star of the night, pouring in a team-leading and career-high 27 points while helping the Mercury build a double-digit second-half lead. Phoenix shot efficiently throughout the night and controlled the pace early, taking a 45-35 advantage into halftime before leading by as many as 17 points.

The Mercury’s defensive pressure also stood out. Phoenix forced difficult looks throughout the first half and limited Chicago’s rhythm offensively, holding the Sky to 35 first-half points before weathering a late comeback attempt.

Mercury center Natasha Mack (4) blocks a shot from Sky guard Skylar Diggins (4) during a game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on May 15, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Even as Chicago erupted for 48 second-half points and cut the deficit down late, the Mercury executed down the stretch to secure their first home victory of the season and improve to 2-2.

Phoenix looked like a team beginning to settle into its identity on both ends of the floor. If it can pair Friday’s defensive intensity with its growing offensive chemistry as pieces come back around, it may finally be turning a corner early in the season.