This was truly a great win over the team chasing Phoenix for the Western Conference lead. Seattle's Sue Bird nailed another late three to send the game to OT but the Mercury's depth wore out Seattle's stars.
All five of the Storm starters logged over 40 minutes while 3 bench players combined for only 2 points in 21 minutes.
Shooting only 41% it wasn't pretty but the strength and depth of the Phoenix roster (which is still without Nicole Ohdle in the middle) was the difference. The Mercury bench lead by Penny Taylor's 18 combined for 33 points and allowed the team's stars to be fresh for the OT. The Mercury outscored the Storm 17 to 6 in the extra five minute period.
This win comes on the heals of Saturday's victory over the 3rd place Lynx and solidifies Phoenix's (16-6) hold on the West with a 3 game lead over Seattle (12-8).
The Mercury's next game is Saturday at home against the Indian Fever who lead the league with a 15-4 record.
[Note by Phoenix Stan, 08/05/09 1:35 PM MST ]
Who can stop the Mercury? « Mechelle Voepel
and don't forget Nicole coming back too!