Here's a bold statement: the 2020 WNBA season delivered some of the most thrilling matchups, but none quite as intriguing as the Phoenix Mercury's series against the Dallas Wings, which ended in a surprising tie. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn't just about wins or losses—it was a showcase of resilience, strategy, and the rise of unexpected stars. Let's dive in.
The Phoenix Mercury wrapped up the 2020 season with an impressive 13-9 record, securing yet another playoff berth. Their postseason journey kicked off with a nail-biting 85-84 victory over the Washington Mystics. But the road ahead wasn’t smooth—they faced a tough 80-79 loss to the Minnesota Lynx. Despite this setback, the Mercury’s success that season was rooted in their ability to dominate in season series, often outperforming both Eastern and Western Conference rivals—and occasionally ending in ties that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Now, let’s talk about the Mercury’s clash with the Dallas Wings. It started with Phoenix’s commanding 91-79 win, where Skylar Diggins-Smith stole the show with 26 points, seven assists, five rebounds, and a steal. But here's where it gets controversial: while Diggins-Smith’s performance was undeniable, it was Brittney Griner’s double-double (22 points, 13 rebounds) and Brianna Turner’s own double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) that truly anchored the team. Nia Coffey’s 10 points off the bench added depth to their victory. Dallas, however, wasn’t without its stars—Arike Ogunbowale had a solid game, and Allisha Gray and Satou Sabally (a future Mercury player) chipped in with 17 and 15 points, respectively.
A few days later, the tables turned. The Wings secured a 95-89 win in a game that felt like a tug-of-war. Ogunbowale erupted with 33 points, while Gray, Marina Mabrey, and Katie Lou Samuelson all scored in double figures. Phoenix fought hard, with Griner leading the charge (29 points, seven rebounds, five assists) and Diggins-Smith adding 20 points. Diana Taurasi, a legend in her own right, contributed 14 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Did the Mercury underestimate the Wings, or was Dallas simply peaking at the right moment?
In the end, the series was a stalemate—a testament to both teams’ grit. While the Wings finished the season under .500, they proved they could go toe-to-toe with a powerhouse like Phoenix. This series wasn’t just about stats; it was about heart, strategy, and the unpredictable nature of the game. Both teams walked away with notable performances and a reminder that every matchup matters.
What’s your take? Did the Mercury miss an opportunity to dominate, or did the Wings simply rise to the occasion? Let us know in the comments! And if you want to relive more of Phoenix’s 2020 season, follow us on X for in-depth analysis and highlights—click right here: https://x.com/MercuryOnSI!
