Phoenix Mercury edged the Portland Fire 94-91 in the WNBA behind a game-high 22 points from Shay Ciezki. Emily Engstler added 21 points and seven rebounds in support as Phoenix closed out the three-point win.
What happened
Ciezki finished with 22 points, two rebounds and three assists to lead all scorers. Emily Engstler followed with 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists in a complete showing across the box score. Holly Winterburn chipped in 18 points, three rebounds and two assists to give Phoenix a third double-figure scoring line.
The Mercury leaned on Ciezki for the scoring lead while Engstler filled the box score across points, rebounds and assists. Winterburn's 18-point night provided the additional punch that separated Phoenix in a three-point game.
The 94-91 margin left little room for error, and Phoenix answered with three productive scoring lines at the top. Ciezki's game-high 22 stood at the front, with Engstler right behind her and Winterburn adding the third punch.
Why it matters
Phoenix got major scoring production from more than one spot, with Engstler close behind Ciezki and Winterburn adding another strong line. That balance proved decisive in a 94-91 result where one scorer alone could not create separation.
It also kept Shay Ciezki at the center of the offense after another game-high finish. Her 22-point lead set the hierarchy, while the 21-point follow-up from Engstler underlined the depth behind her.
For the Mercury, the takeaway is distribution without losing a clear lead option. Ciezki remains the focal point, but Engstler's 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists show a secondary line that can carry a heavy load. Winterburn's 18 points, three rebounds and two assists round out a top three that held up in a close finish.
By the numbers
Shay Ciezki: 22 points, two rebounds, three assists. Emily Engstler: 21 points, seven rebounds, five assists. Holly Winterburn: 18 points, three rebounds, two assists.
The gap between Ciezki and Engstler was minimal at the top of the box score, while Winterburn kept Phoenix three-deep with 18. Engstler's seven rebounds led the trio on the glass, and her five assists also topped the group.
What to watch next
Watch whether Ciezki follows the 22-point night with another scoring lead. Phoenix will also want the same secondary output from Engstler and Winterburn after both delivered strong final lines.
If Ciezki stays in the scoring lead and Engstler and Winterburn repeat their production, Phoenix keeps the formula from the 94-91 win. Any drop in that secondary scoring would put more pressure back on the game-high pace.