Las Vegas Aces Take Narrow 89-86 Lead Over Phoenix Mercury in WNBA Finals Game 1

The Phoenix Mercury lost Game 1 of the 2025 WNBA Finals to the Las Vegas Aces 89-86, despite leading for most of the game and carrying momentum at halftime. Kahleah Copper led the Mercury with a strong first half, scoring 19 points, but her production declined in the second half as the Aces adjusted defensively. A crucial turning point was MVP candidate Alyssa Thomas missing two critical free throws late in the game, which could have put the Mercury ahead. The Mercury have a pattern of dropping the first game in each playoff series but have rallied to win subsequent games, a trend that will be tested again as the series continues. The Aces were led by A’ja Wilson's 21 points and strong rebounding, maintaining a narrow advantage in the series. Game 2 is set to take place in Las Vegas, offering the Mercury a chance to even the series before the Finals continue in Phoenix.