Phoenix Mercury edge Golden State Valkyries 78-77 on last-second free throw

Alyssa Thomas secured a thrilling 78-77 victory for the Phoenix Mercury over the Golden State Valkyries with a decisive free throw in the final second of Monday night's game. DeWanna Bonner led the Mercury with 22 points and 11 rebounds, making key plays late, while Thomas contributed 17 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds despite missing the previous game due to injury. The Valkyries, led by Veronica Burton's 17 points and 6 assists, staged a late comeback with Janelle Salaün tying the game with a 3-pointer and a jumper in the final seconds. The Mercury battled early shooting struggles and a strong Valkyries defense that forced 14 turnovers, but ultimately held on in a back-and-forth contest marked by multiple lead changes. Phoenix improved to 15-6 and will next face the Minnesota Lynx, while Golden State dropped to 10-11, having lost four of their last five games. Both teams showcased intense competition, with the Valkyries playing before a sellout crowd and the Mercury overcoming the absence of injured stars Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper.