Why Game 2 Is Crucial To Phoenix's Playoff Run

The Phoenix Mercury want to win a championship, and in order for that to happen, they will likely need a road win over Minnesota.

Sep 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) dribbles the ball past Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) in the first half during game one of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images / Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

The Phoenix Mercury were fresh off of their win over the New York Liberty, and after that, they went on to start their series with the Minnesota Lynx.

Minnesota reached the WNBA Finals last season, but they lost to the Liberty in an intense series. The Lynx want to redeem themselves, and they started their playoff journey on the right foot.

They started this year's playoffs with a win over the Golden State Valkyries. Minnesota swept them 2-0, which was the only sweep of the first round. All of the others ended up being 2-1.

Now, the Lynx are facing the team they swept in the first round last season, but they look much different.

Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally (0) scores past New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (30) in the first half during Game Three of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs first round at PHX Arena on Sept. 19, 2025, in Phoenix. / Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

During the offseason, the Mercury added two new stars in Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas. Then, they brought in some other players, such as Monique Akoa Makani and other rookies, and the team is looking to win and get the franchise's fourth championship.

Phoenix started off their series against Minnesota with a game on the road. Minnesota rarely lost on their home floor, and although the Mercury picked up a road win in Game 2 of their previous series, it was going to be difficult getting a win in Target Center.

The Lynx beat the Mercury 82-69, but the Mercury had a few solid performances. Kahleah Copper was the team's leading scorer with 22 points. Alyssa Thomas had 18 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Sami Whitcomb had 11 points and Satou Sabally had 10.

Sep 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Kayla McBride (21) passes the ball around Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33) in the second half during game one of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images / Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Mercury fight while Lynx rest

Phoenix ran into a rested Minnesota, while the Mercury had a busy week. So, having little time to rest and going against a fellow contender who is dangerous on their home floor is hard for anyone. However, they cannot dwell on the loss in the first game, and they have to quickly regroup and get ready for Game 2.

The Mercury will look to get a win in that game, as they want to tie the series before heading back home. Phoenix plays well on their home floor, and if they win the second game and possibly the third, they take over the lead. If they win both home games, they will not have to worry about returning to Minnesota. So, it is best to get it out the way.

Sep 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams (10) drives to the basket past Phoenix Mercury guard Monique Akoa Makani (8) in the first half during game one of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images / Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Game 2 is an extremely important game, and if the Mercury are at their best, they can get the victory.

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