WNBA Playoffs: Mercury Eliminate Liberty In Game 3 Thriller

David

3 min read

Post on Sep 20, 2025

4.7

Share

WNBA Playoffs: Mercury Eliminate Liberty in Game 3 Thriller

The Phoenix Mercury sent the New York Liberty home in a nail-biting Game 3, ending their captivating playoff run with a decisive victory. The 85-78 win wasn't just a victory; it was a testament to the Mercury's resilience and a heartbreaking end to a promising season for the Liberty. This thrilling matchup showcased the exceptional talent and intensity that define the WNBA playoffs.

A Back-and-Forth Battle:

The game was a rollercoaster from tip-off. Both teams traded blows throughout, showcasing exceptional offensive firepower and tenacious defense. New York's Breanna Stewart, a perennial MVP candidate, and Courtney Vandersloot put up a valiant fight, consistently pushing the Liberty back into contention. However, the Mercury's experience and strategic adjustments proved decisive in the final quarter. The Liberty's high-octane offense, which had powered them through the regular season, found itself stifled by the Mercury's increasingly effective defensive pressure.

Key Moments that Defined the Game:

• Diana Taurasi's Clutch Performance: The veteran guard, Diana Taurasi, delivered a masterful performance, showcasing her legendary composure under pressure. Her timely three-pointers and crucial assists were instrumental in keeping the Mercury ahead during crucial moments. Taurasi's experience proved invaluable, guiding her team through the tense final minutes.
• Skylar Diggins-Smith's Leadership: Skylar Diggins-Smith provided a significant offensive threat, consistently attacking the basket and creating opportunities for her teammates. Her leadership on the court was evident in the Mercury's ability to maintain composure and execute their game plan effectively.
• Defensive Dominance in the Fourth Quarter: The Mercury's defensive intensity in the final quarter proved to be the game-changer. They successfully limited the Liberty's scoring opportunities, forcing turnovers and contesting every shot. This suffocating defense ultimately sealed their victory.

Looking Ahead:

The Phoenix Mercury advance to the next round of the WNBA Playoffs, where they will face a formidable opponent. Their victory over the Liberty underscores their playoff prowess and their potential to make a deep run in the postseason. This elimination game highlighted the unpredictable nature of the WNBA playoffs and showcased the exceptional talent within the league. For the Liberty, despite the disappointment of elimination, their season was a significant step forward, marking a promising future for the franchise.

The Impact on the WNBA Playoffs:

This series showcased the growing parity within the WNBA. The Liberty, a team that exceeded many expectations this season, pushed the Mercury to the brink. This intense playoff battle only further elevates the excitement surrounding the WNBA Playoffs and promises more thrilling matchups to come. The league continues to attract a wider audience with its high-level athleticism, compelling storylines, and the undeniable star power of players like Breanna Stewart and Diana Taurasi.

What's Next? Follow us for continued coverage of the WNBA Playoffs and in-depth analysis of the remaining matchups. Don't miss out on the action! #WNBA #WNBAplayoffs #Mercury #Liberty #basketball

(Optional: Include links to relevant articles, WNBA team websites, and social media accounts here.)