The 2019 WNBA season was a rollercoaster for the Phoenix Mercury, and their battles against the Chicago Sky were nothing short of dramatic. But here's where it gets controversial: Was it simply a case of the Sky being unstoppable, or did the Mercury miss crucial opportunities that cost them the series? Let’s dive into the details and uncover what really happened.
The Mercury’s 2019 campaign culminated in another playoff appearance, thanks to their resilience and standout performances throughout the season. They faced tough opponents and emerged victorious in several matchups, but they also stumbled along the way. One of those stumbles—or rather, a full-on sweep—came at the hands of the Chicago Sky. The Sky dominated the series, starting with a home game where they edged out the Mercury 82-75. And this is the part most people miss: It wasn’t just about the final score; it was about the individual performances that shaped the outcome.
DeWanna Bonner was the undisputed star of that first game, pouring in 28 points while adding 12 rebounds, six assists, a steal, and a block. Brittney Griner also had a solid outing with 16 points, six rebounds, two blocks, an assist, and a steal. Despite their efforts, the Mercury couldn’t overcome Diamond DeShields, who later joined the Mercury but was then a force for the Sky. DeShields dropped 25 points, grabbed three steals, and chipped in with two rebounds, two assists, and a block.
In the second game, the Mercury had a chance to even the series on their home court. But the Sky had other plans, securing a 94-86 victory. Griner exploded for 34 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and a block, while Bonner contributed 18 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, a steal, and a block. Diana Taurasi, another Mercury veteran, added 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Yet, it still wasn’t enough to stop Chicago’s momentum.
The Sky returned home for the third game and delivered a decisive 105-78 win. Griner once again led the Mercury with 26 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. Bonner chipped in with a double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds), along with four assists, two blocks, and two steals. Essence Carson provided a spark off the bench with 10 points, three assists, two rebounds, and a steal. But the Sky’s dominance was undeniable.
Chicago’s mastery over Phoenix extended into the playoffs, where they defeated the Mercury 105-76 in a single-elimination game. The Sky’s run eventually ended in a narrow 93-92 loss to the Las Vegas Aces, who then faced the Washington Mystics in the next round.
Here’s the bold question: Did the Mercury simply run into an unstoppable force in the Sky, or did they fail to capitalize on key moments? Looking back, it’s clear that Chicago was the better team that year, but the Mercury’s struggles raise intriguing questions about strategy, lineup adjustments, and mental toughness. And as history shows, this wasn’t the last time these two teams would clash.
What do you think? Was the Sky’s dominance inevitable, or could the Mercury have turned the tide with different decisions? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow us on X for more in-depth analysis of Phoenix’s 2019 season series against the Chicago Sky—click here to stay updated: https://x.com/MercuryOnSI!
