Phoenix Mercury Edges Dallas Wings in Thrilling Finish
Monday, September 21, 2026, 10:00 PM ET · Mortgage Matchup Center
Phoenix Mercury 87, Dallas Wings 86, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Dallas Wings vs Phoenix Mercury?
Phoenix Mercury beat Dallas Wings 87-86 at Mortgage Matchup Center on September 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Dallas Wings vs Phoenix Mercury?
Dallas Wings were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -218 (about 69% implied). The underdog won.
In a nail-biting finish, the Phoenix Mercury triumphed over the Dallas Wings with a final score of 87-86 at the Mortgage Matchup Center. This contest was significant not only for the close score but also because it showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with the Wings having previously won the series 2-1 against the Mercury this season.
The Mercury entered the game with a record of 16-27, while the Wings boasted a stronger 26-17 record. In their last ten games, the Mercury had struggled, achieving a record of 3-7, with an average of 84.9 points scored and 86.5 points allowed. Their recent form included a loss to the Wings just days prior on September 19, where they fell 82-87. The Mercury's home performance had been less than stellar, with a home record of 1-4 in their last five games, averaging 86.8 points scored and 84.2 points allowed.
Conversely, the Wings were riding a six-game winning streak, having recorded a 7-3 record in their last ten outings, with an impressive average of 90.1 points scored and only 83.0 points allowed. Their recent victories included a dominant win against the Los Angeles Sparks (97-77) and a convincing performance against the Connecticut Sun (97-71). The Wings had been particularly strong at home, boasting a perfect 7-0 record, but struggled on the road with an away record of 0-3 in their last five.
In terms of head-to-head matchups, the Mercury had lost four of their last six encounters against the Wings, including the last two games of the current season. This history added an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup, as the Mercury sought to turn the tide in their favor.
Injuries played a significant role in the game, impacting both teams. The Mercury were without Kelsey Plum and Jovana Nogic, while the Wings were missing Alysha Clark, Alanna Smith, Azzi Fudd, and Costanza Verona. The absence of key players undoubtedly affected both teams' strategies and rotations throughout the contest.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, had the Wings favored by 5.5 points, with a total set at 174.5. The odds reflected the Wings' stronger season performance, but the Mercury's home advantage and recent competitive showing against Dallas added uncertainty to the expected outcome.
The game conditions were ripe for a competitive matchup, and the intense atmosphere at the Mortgage Matchup Center contributed to the excitement. Fans witnessed a thrilling contest that saw multiple lead changes and clutch performances as the game progressed.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the tension mounted with each scoring play. Kahleah Copper made crucial free throws, while Paige Bueckers sank a significant three-pointer to give the Wings a brief lead. However, the Mercury responded with timely baskets, including a critical layup from Copper that ultimately sealed their victory. The final moments were filled with drama, as both teams fought hard for every point, but it was the Mercury who emerged victorious in this tightly contested battle.
Overall, this game was a testament to the competitive nature of the WNBA, showcasing the talent and determination of both teams. The Mercury's ability to secure a win despite their recent struggles and the Wings' strong form made for an exciting matchup that will be remembered by fans.
What we said beforehand
The Phoenix Mercury will face off against the Dallas Wings on September 22, 2026, at the Mortgage Matchup Center. This matchup is particularly intriguing as the Dallas Wings lead the series 2-0 this season, having defeated the Mercury in their last encounter just three days prior, with a score of 87-82. The Wings are currently enjoying a six-game winning streak, while the Mercury have struggled recently, losing three of their last five games.
The Mercury's record stands at 15-27, while the Wings boast a much stronger 26-16. In their last five games, the Mercury have secured two wins against the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire, but they also suffered losses to the Washington Mystics and the Dallas Wings. Their recent form shows an average of 86.8 points scored and 84.2 points allowed in their last five games. At home, the Mercury have a record of 1-4 in their last five games, averaging 84.9 points scored and allowing 86.5 points.
In contrast, the Wings have been on a tear, winning their last six games and averaging 93.8 points scored while allowing just 75.6 points in their last five. They have a perfect home record of 7-0 in their last ten games, but they are still looking for their first away win in three attempts.
In terms of injuries, the Mercury will be without Kelsey Plum and Jovana Nogic, while the Wings will miss Alanna Smith, Azzi Fudd, and Costanza Verona. The absence of these key players could significantly impact both teams' performances.
The betting market reflects the Wings' strong performance this season, with DraftKings listing them as 5.5-point favorites. The total for the game is set at 173.5, indicating expectations for a competitive matchup.
Fans should watch for the performance of Mercury's Kahleah Copper, who leads the team in scoring with an average of 21.3 points per game, as well as Alyssa Thomas, who leads in assists and rebounds. For the Wings, Paige Bueckers is the standout player, averaging 20.6 points and 5.8 assists per game, while Jessica Shepard leads in rebounds with an average of 10.9. This game promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams as they vie for positioning in the playoffs.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | DAL -5.5 | 174.5 o -110 / u -110 | Dallas Wings -218 · Phoenix Mercury +180 |
Injury report
- Kelsey PlumOutLower LegPhoenix Mercury
- Jovana NogicOutNot Injury RelatedPhoenix Mercury
- Alysha ClarkOutFaceDallas Wings
- Alanna SmithOutLower LegDallas Wings
- Azzi FuddOutKneeDallas Wings
- Costanza VeronaOutPersonalDallas Wings
Leaders
- PointsKahleah Copper31Phoenix Mercury
- AssistsAlyssa Thomas12Phoenix Mercury
- ReboundsAlyssa Thomas11Phoenix Mercury
- PointsPaige Bueckers30Dallas Wings
- AssistsPaige Bueckers7Dallas Wings
- ReboundsJessica Shepard19Dallas Wings
Recent form
Phoenix Mercury
Last 10: 3-7Streak L184.9 scored · 86.5 allowed per game1-4 at home
- L82-87at Dallas WingsSep 19
- W94-91at Portland FireSep 18
- W101-69vs Toronto TempoAug 30
- L73-80vs Washington MysticsAug 28
- L84-94vs Washington MysticsAug 26
- L89-99vs Atlanta DreamAug 23
- L85-88vs Portland FireAug 16
- W94-87at Los Angeles SparksAug 12
- L75-95at Washington MysticsAug 9
- L72-75at Connecticut SunAug 7
Dallas Wings
Last 10: 7-3Streak W690.1 scored · 83 allowed per game0-3 away
- W87-82vs Phoenix MercurySep 19
- W97-77vs Los Angeles SparksSep 18
- W97-71vs Connecticut SunAug 31
- W96-78vs Portland FireAug 26
- W92-70vs Seattle StormAug 23
- W91-85vs Indiana FeverAug 21
- L70-78at Golden State ValkyriesAug 18
- L87-98at Indiana FeverAug 14
- W94-88vs Toronto TempoAug 13
- L90-103at Minnesota LynxAug 9
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | - | 10 | W1 | .762 | 32 |
| Golden State | 1 | 11 | W6 | .738 | 31 |
| Las Vegas | 3 | 13 | W5 | .690 | 29 |
| Dallas | 6.5 | 17 | L1 | .605 | 26 |
| Los Angeles | 16 | 26 | W1 | .381 | 16 |
| Phoenix | 16.5 | 27 | W1 | .372 | 16 |
| Portland | 16.5 | 27 | L4 | .372 | 16 |
| Seattle | 24.5 | 35 | L4 | .186 | 8 |
Box score
| Stat | Dallas Wings | Phoenix Mercury |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 31-74 | 28-67 |
| Field goal % | 42 | 42 |
| Three-pointers | 10-23 | 5-21 |
| Three-point % | 43 | 24 |
| Free throws | 14-21 | 26-30 |
| Free throw % | 67 | 87 |
| Rebounds | 42 | 32 |
| Offensive rebounds | 11 | 6 |
| Defensive rebounds | 31 | 26 |
| Assists | 24 | 22 |
| Steals | 3 | 4 |
| Blocks | 6 | 5 |
| Turnovers | 9 | 5 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 14 | 6 |
| Fast-break points | 9 | 5 |
| Points in the paint | 22 | 40 |
| Fouls | 21 | 17 |
| Largest lead | 14 | 1 |
| Lead changes | 9 | 9 |
| Time in front | 94 | 3 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter59-54Arike Ogunbowale makes 23-foot three point jumper (Li Yueru assists)
- 3rd Quarter61-54Jessica Shepard makes driving layup (Odyssey Sims assists)
- 3rd Quarter63-54Li Yueru makes 2-foot layup (Jessica Shepard assists)
- 3rd Quarter64-54Li Yueru makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter64-55Alyssa Thomas makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter67-55Paige Bueckers makes 26-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter68-55Jessica Shepard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter68-56Kahleah Copper makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter68-57Natasha Mack makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter68-58Natasha Mack makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter68-61Sami Whitcomb makes 22-foot three point jumper (Shay Ciezki assists)
- 4th Quarter68-63Kahleah Copper makes 7-foot two point shot (Sami Whitcomb assists)
- 4th Quarter70-63Paige Bueckers makes 13-foot pullup jump shot (Jessica Shepard assists)
- 4th Quarter72-63Jessica Shepard makes running layup (Odyssey Sims assists)
- 4th Quarter74-63Awak Kuier makes 6-foot two point shot (Arike Ogunbowale assists)
- 4th Quarter74-64Marta Suarez makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter74-65Marta Suarez makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter74-67Shay Ciezki makes 10-foot turnaround jump shot
- 4th Quarter76-67Paige Bueckers makes 15-foot pullup jump shot (Odyssey Sims assists)
- 4th Quarter76-68Kahleah Copper makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter76-70Kahleah Copper makes 4-foot layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter77-70Jessica Shepard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter77-72Kahleah Copper makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter77-73Kahleah Copper makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter78-73Jessica Shepard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-73Jessica Shepard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-74Kara Dunn makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-75Kara Dunn makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-77Kahleah Copper makes 2-foot reverse layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter81-77Arike Ogunbowale makes 15-foot step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter81-79Alyssa Thomas makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter81-80Kahleah Copper makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter81-81Kahleah Copper makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter84-81Paige Bueckers makes 28-foot three point jumper (Awak Kuier assists)
- 4th Quarter84-82Kahleah Copper makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter84-83Kahleah Copper makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter85-83Arike Ogunbowale makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter86-83Arike Ogunbowale makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter86-85Natasha Mack makes 6-foot layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter86-87Kahleah Copper makes 4-foot layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
Win probability
Above the line favours Phoenix Mercury, below favours Dallas Wings.
Venue
- Mortgage Matchup CenterPhoenix, AZ
- Attendance11941
- OfficialsRoy Gulbeyan, Ashley Gloss, Charles Watson
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WNBA rules and settlement
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- Dallas Wings Edge Phoenix Mercury in Close ContestSep 19, 2026
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