In an exciting matchup on Thursday night, rookie Lexi Held led the Phoenix Mercury to an 86-77 victory over the Golden State Valkyries, scoring a season-high 24 points. The Mercury, who were missing key players Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas due to injuries, found themselves trailing 76-68 with just over four minutes left in the game. However, they rallied back with an impressive 18-1 run to secure the win.
Held’s pivotal moment came when she hit a deep three-pointer to put Phoenix ahead 77-76 with only 1:11 remaining. Following a mixed free-throw performance by Golden State, Satou Sabally, who contributed significantly with 19 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, rebounded her own miss and scored while being fouled. She converted the free throw, extending the lead to 80-77.
Golden State’s Veronica Burton, who led her team with 16 points, missed a crucial layup, allowing Sabally to further increase the lead with two free throws. The Valkyries struggled in the closing moments, turning the ball over on consecutive inbound plays, which allowed Phoenix to seal the victory with four more successful free throws.
In total, Held shot 7 for 15 from the field, including four 3-pointers, and went a perfect 6 for 6 from the free-throw line, setting a new rookie scoring benchmark this season. Sami Whitcomb added nine points for Phoenix. Golden State’s Temi Fagbenle contributed a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Julie Vanloo each chipped in with 10 points. The Mercury improved their home record to 5-1, marking the best start in franchise history.
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