RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesAug 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard-forward Kahleah Copper (2) takes a shot over Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen (44) during the second half at CareFirst Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
WASHINGTON — The Phoenix Mercury continued their tough road trip Sunday against the Washington Mystics, but had no answers as they fell 95-75, with their margin for error continuing to thin.
Phoenix and Washington began the matchup competitively, both trading runs in the first quarter and separated by a single point. However, that competitiveness vanished for the Mercury as the Mystics took charge the rest of the way with key shooting and tough defense that kept Phoenix from scoring more than 17 points in the second and third quarters.
Sixteen turnovers also turned into 18 points for Washington, highlighting Phoenix’s inability to take care of the ball.
The Mercury’s defense also had no answers for the Mystics’ offense, allowing them to shoot 50% from the field and score 42 points in the paint.
Aug 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Valeriane Ayayi (11) drives past Washington Mystics guard Cotie McMahon (23) during the second half at CareFirst Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
What made the loss even more difficult was the early departure of Kelsey Plum, who left the game with left calf tightness. Plum was playing her fourth game with Phoenix since being acquired at the trade deadline, leaving the team without one of its dynamic shooters and playmakers.
Head coach Nate Tibbetts said the team wanted to play it safe, prioritizing Plum’s health rather than pushing her.
The concern for Phoenix’s playoff position is now more apparent than ever. With another three-game skid, the Mercury’s chances for a postseason berth continue to slip away. The team’s road trip has also made it difficult to find time to collect itself and practice, making it an even harder task for a group that has been trying to find consistency.
Aug 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Mystics center Shakira Austin (0) takes a shot during the first half against the Phoenix Mercury at CareFirst Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
“I think the biggest thing is just pride,” Tibbetts said postgame when asked how to have his team reset without that practice time. “Just want to, competitive spirit and continuing to play.”
While Sunday’s loss came against one of the hottest teams in the WNBA, going toe-to-toe with Washington for one quarter showcased what Phoenix could have done if it had maintained its rhythm. However, when Washington punched back, the Mercury never found a way to recover.
Aug 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward-guard DeWanna Bonner (24) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Washington Mystics at CareFirst Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
The Mercury will close out their five-game road trip in California when they take on the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday, Aug. 11, at 7 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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