The Big Three at the Center of Phoenix’s Title Push
The Phoenix Mercury enter the 2025 WNBA Finals with momentum, resilience, and belief in their new identity. After franchise legends Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner left in the offseason, the Mercury quickly reorganized around a new team core: Kahleah Copper, Alyssa Thomas, and Satou Sabally. There were high expectations, but with Copper’s preseason injury delaying the trio’s debut, it raised questions about whether or not the Phoenix could contend. Instead of folding under the pressure, the Mercury held steady with a 7-4 start and later improved when Copper returned, showing the chemistry that the team has used to define their playoff run. Sabally stepped into a starring role, while Thomas provided her signature versatility, and Copper reclaimed her spot as the team's fearless scorer. When the postseason began, Phoenix transformed themselves into a group that thrives under pressure, evident in their upset over the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx in the semifinals.
For Mercury, the supporting cast has also made a significant difference. Rookie point guard Monique Akoa Makani has impressed with her defense, while Kathryn Westbeld’s shooting has given the bench a reliable spark. DeWanna Bonner, who joined midway through the year, has brought veteran leadership and stability to a group that was still gelling late in the season. These contributions have balanced the star power of the big three and given the Mercury multiple options in crunch-time situations. Head coach Nate Tibbetts has leaned heavily on his team’s adaptability, noting how the team’s sacrifices and chemistry off the court have proved to translate into playoff success. The Mercury’s defense, especially, has fueled their success, limiting Minnesota’s league-best offense in the semifinals, proving they can hold up even against the WNBA’s top teams.
Still, standing in their way is the Las Vegas Aces chasing dynasty status. With two championships in the last three years and a team led by four-time MVP A’ja Wilson and two-way guard Jackie Young, the Aces remain the league’s gold standard. Las Vegas also claimed the season series 3-1, including a dominant 22-point win in August, though three of those were tightly contested. That balance sets the stage for an unpredictable best-of-seven Finals. For Phoenix, the path to victory will come down to the continued dominance of Copper, Thomas, and Sabally, and whether their depth can counter Las Vegas’ proven firepower.
