The decisive moment
Phoenix grabbed the lead for good with 10:00 remaining in the fourth quarter, then leaned on its defense to close out a 72-68 win in Seattle. In a game where neither side could pull away, the Mercury's late composure proved the difference.
By the numbers
- Final: Phoenix 72, Seattle 68 — decided by just 4 points
- Natasha Mack (Phoenix): 16 PTS, 10 REB, 2 AST
- Kahleah Copper (Phoenix): 16 PTS, 6 REB, 1 AST
- Awa Fam (Seattle): 18 PTS, 6 REB, 2 AST
- Natisha Hiedeman (Seattle): 15 PTS, 4 REB, 4 AST
- Combined scoring: 140 points across both teams
Mack's double-double set the tone on the glass, while Copper added a steady scoring punch to balance the Phoenix attack.
What it means
For Phoenix, this is the kind of low-scoring, defense-first win that travels well over a long campaign. Seattle, meanwhile, kept it close despite a shorthanded lineup and can take encouragement from Awa Fam's team-high 18 points and Natisha Hiedeman's all-around contribution.
The Storm continue to manage significant absences, with Ezi Magbegor sidelined for at least 6-8 weeks due to a right foot injury and Dominique Malonga out in concussion protocol.
What to watch next
Seattle will look to convert its competitive effort into results as it works through its injury report, while Phoenix aims to build momentum off a hard-earned road victory.