Dallas Wings Edge Phoenix Mercury in Close Contest
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 1:00 PM ET · College Park Center
Dallas Wings 87, Phoenix Mercury 82, 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 Phoenix Mercury vs Dallas Wings?
Dallas Wings beat Phoenix Mercury 87-82 at College Park Center on September 19, 2026.
Who was favored in Phoenix Mercury vs Dallas Wings?
Dallas Wings were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -485 (about 83% implied). The favorite won.
The Dallas Wings secured a narrow victory over the Phoenix Mercury, finishing the game with a score of 87-82. This win marked the Wings' third consecutive victory over the Mercury this season, extending their lead in the series to 3-0. The matchup took place at the College Park Center, where the Wings have demonstrated strong home performance throughout the season.
In terms of recent form, the Dallas Wings have been in impressive shape, boasting a record of 6-4 over their last ten games, with a notable winning streak of five games. They have averaged 89.0 points scored while allowing 84.2 points during this stretch. Their last five games have seen them score an average of 94.6 points while allowing just 76.2 points, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive capabilities. At home, the Wings have been particularly dominant, holding a home record of 6-1 in their last seven games.
On the other hand, the Phoenix Mercury have struggled this season, holding a record of 3-7 in their last ten games. They have averaged 84.9 points scored and allowed 87.4 points during this period. Despite their challenges, the Mercury managed to secure a win in their last game against the Portland Fire, which was their second consecutive victory. Their away record stands at 2-3 in the last five games, indicating some improvement, but they still face significant hurdles.
The injury report for both teams highlighted key absences. The Dallas Wings were without Alanna Smith (lower leg), Azzi Fudd (knee), and Costanza Verona (personal reasons). Meanwhile, the Phoenix Mercury were missing Kahleah Copper (groin), Kelsey Plum (lower leg), and Jovana Nogic (not injury-related). These injuries undoubtedly impacted the lineups and strategies employed by both teams during the game.
The betting market reflected the Wings' strong position heading into the game, with DraftKings setting the spread at -10.5 in favor of Dallas. The total for the game was set at 172.5, with odds of -108.0 for the over and -112.0 for the under. The moneyline odds indicated a heavy favorite in the Wings at -485.0, while the Mercury were priced at +370.0, reflecting the disparity in their recent performances and overall standings.
Conditions during the game were conducive for a competitive matchup, with both teams looking to capitalize on their respective strengths. The Wings' offensive strategy, led by standout performances, was crucial in maintaining their lead throughout the game. Key scoring plays included Arike Ogunbowale's crucial shots in the fourth quarter, which helped to secure the victory for Dallas. Ogunbowale's contributions were pivotal as she made significant plays, including a fadeaway jump shot and important free throws down the stretch.
As the game progressed, the tension mounted, with the Mercury making a strong push in the fourth quarter. Sami Whitcomb and Paige Bueckers contributed vital points for Phoenix, keeping the game within reach. However, the Wings' ability to respond with timely scoring and effective defense ultimately sealed their win.
Overall, this fixture showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with the Dallas Wings continuing to assert their dominance in the series while the Phoenix Mercury look to regroup and address their challenges moving forward.
What we said beforehand
The Dallas Wings, boasting a solid home record of 25-16, are set to face the Phoenix Mercury, who come in with an away record of 15-26, on September 19, 2026, at the College Park Center. This matchup is particularly intriguing as the Wings currently lead the series against the Mercury 1-0, having won their last encounter 85-70 on June 12, 2026.
In their recent form, the Dallas Wings have been on a remarkable winning streak, having won their last five games. In their last five outings, they secured victories against the Indiana Fever (91-85), Seattle Storm (92-70), Portland Fire (96-78), Connecticut Sun (97-71), and Los Angeles Sparks (97-77). Averaging 94.6 points scored and allowing just 76.2 points during this stretch, the Wings have demonstrated both offensive prowess and defensive strength, particularly at home where they have a record of 6-1 in their last ten games.
Conversely, the Phoenix Mercury have struggled recently, with a record of 3-7 over their last ten games, though they have managed to win their last two matches against the Toronto Tempo (101-69) and Portland Fire (94-91). Despite these wins, their overall performance has been inconsistent, averaging 84.9 points scored while allowing 87.4 points in their last ten games. Their away record reflects this inconsistency, with only two wins in their last five away games.
In terms of injuries, both teams are facing significant challenges. The Dallas Wings will be without Alanna Smith (lower leg), Azzi Fudd (knee), and Costanza Verona (personal reasons). The Phoenix Mercury are also dealing with notable absences, including Kahleah Copper (groin), Kelsey Plum (lower leg), and Jovana Nogic (not injury-related). These injuries could impact the teams' strategies and overall performance on the court.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has set the spread at Dallas Wings -9.5, with a total of 172.5 points for the game. The odds for the Wings to win outright are -470, while the Mercury are listed at +360. This indicates a strong expectation for the Wings to perform well at home, given their recent form and the Mercury's struggles.
As for what viewers should watch for, the performance of Paige Bueckers will be crucial for the Wings. She leads her team in points with an average of 20.4 and assists at 5.8. On the other side, the Mercury will rely on Alyssa Thomas, who leads her team in assists with an average of 8.4 and rebounds at 7.7, despite the absence of their leading scorer, Kahleah Copper.
Overall, this matchup promises to be an exciting contest, with the Wings looking to continue their winning streak at home against a Mercury team striving to build on their recent victories. The absence of key players on both sides adds an extra layer of intrigue as both teams aim to secure a crucial win.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | DAL -10.5 | 172.5 o -108 / u -112 | Phoenix Mercury +370 · Dallas Wings -485 |
Injury report
- Alanna SmithOutLower LegDallas Wings
- Azzi FuddOutKneeDallas Wings
- Costanza VeronaOutPersonalDallas Wings
- Kahleah CopperOutGroinPhoenix Mercury
- Kelsey PlumOutLower LegPhoenix Mercury
- Jovana NogicOutNot Injury RelatedPhoenix Mercury
Leaders
- PointsPaige Bueckers26Dallas Wings
- AssistsArike Ogunbowale6Dallas Wings
- ReboundsJessica Shepard6Dallas Wings
- PointsLexi Held21Phoenix Mercury
- AssistsAlyssa Thomas11Phoenix Mercury
- ReboundsAlyssa Thomas10Phoenix Mercury
Recent form
Dallas Wings
Last 10: 6-4Streak W589 scored · 84.2 allowed per game6-1 at home
- 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
- L76-94vs Golden State ValkyriesAug 8
Phoenix Mercury
Last 10: 3-7Streak W284.9 scored · 87.4 allowed per game2-3 away
- 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
- L82-96at Atlanta DreamAug 5
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | - | 10 | L3 | .756 | 31 |
| Golden State | 1 | 11 | W5 | .732 | 30 |
| Las Vegas | 3 | 13 | W4 | .683 | 28 |
| Dallas | 5.5 | 16 | W6 | .619 | 26 |
| Portland | 15.5 | 26 | L3 | .381 | 16 |
| Los Angeles | 16 | 26 | L1 | .366 | 15 |
| Phoenix | 16.5 | 27 | L1 | .357 | 15 |
| Seattle | 23 | 33 | L2 | .195 | 8 |
Box score
| Stat | Phoenix Mercury | Dallas Wings |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 30-69 | 30-71 |
| Field goal % | 43 | 42 |
| Three-pointers | 7-26 | 8-25 |
| Three-point % | 27 | 32 |
| Free throws | 15-21 | 19-26 |
| Free throw % | 71 | 73 |
| Rebounds | 35 | 32 |
| Offensive rebounds | 6 | 7 |
| Defensive rebounds | 29 | 25 |
| Assists | 21 | 21 |
| Steals | 5 | 10 |
| Blocks | 6 | 7 |
| Turnovers | 13 | 8 |
| Team turnovers | 1 | 1 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 19 | 6 |
| Fast-break points | 9 | 19 |
| Points in the paint | 28 | 26 |
| Fouls | 24 | 19 |
| Largest lead | 8 | 9 |
| Lead changes | 1 | 1 |
| Time in front | 40 | 56 |
How the scoring went
- 2nd Quarter47-50Arike Ogunbowale makes free throw 1 of 1
- 2nd Quarter49-50Noemie Brochant makes 13-foot pullup jump shot (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 2nd Quarter49-51Awak Kuier makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Quarter49-52Aziaha James makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Quarter49-53Aziaha James makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Quarter49-56Paige Bueckers makes 24-foot three pointer (Awak Kuier assists)
- 3rd Quarter49-58Jessica Shepard makes running layup (Arike Ogunbowale assists)
- 3rd Quarter51-58Alyssa Thomas makes 10-foot driving floating jump shot (Sami Whitcomb assists)
- 3rd Quarter53-58Alyssa Thomas makes 9-foot running jump shot (Lexi Held assists)
- 3rd Quarter53-60Jessica Shepard makes 13-foot jumper (Awak Kuier assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-60Shay Ciezki makes driving layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 3rd Quarter58-60Lexi Held makes 25-foot three point jumper (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 3rd Quarter60-60Alyssa Thomas makes 14-foot jumper (Lexi Held assists)
- 3rd Quarter60-62Arike Ogunbowale makes two point shot (Paige Bueckers assists)
- 3rd Quarter60-64Kitija Laksa makes 14-foot pullup jump shot
- 3rd Quarter60-66Arike Ogunbowale makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter60-67Li Yueru makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter60-68Li Yueru makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter62-68Valeriane Ayayi makes tip shot
- 3rd Quarter63-68Valeriane Ayayi makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter64-68Sami Whitcomb makes technical free throw
- 4th Quarter64-69Odyssey Sims makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter64-71Awak Kuier makes running layup (Arike Ogunbowale assists)
- 4th Quarter64-73Odyssey Sims makes 17-foot jumper (Arike Ogunbowale assists)
- 4th Quarter67-73Lexi Held makes 23-foot three point jumper (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter69-73Lexi Held makes driving layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter69-75Paige Bueckers makes 19-foot jumper (Jessica Shepard assists)
- 4th Quarter69-77Jessica Shepard makes 12-foot jumper (Aziaha James assists)
- 4th Quarter72-77Noemie Brochant makes 22-foot three point jumper (Shay Ciezki assists)
- 4th Quarter72-78Jessica Shepard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter74-78Natasha Mack makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter76-78Natasha Mack makes 12-foot two point shot (Sami Whitcomb assists)
- 4th Quarter76-80Arike Ogunbowale makes 16-foot fade away jump shot
- 4th Quarter79-80Sami Whitcomb makes 24-foot three point jumper (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter79-83Paige Bueckers makes 28-foot three point step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter81-83Natasha Mack makes 6-foot layup (Alyssa Thomas assists)
- 4th Quarter81-85Arike Ogunbowale makes 8-foot two point shot (Alysha Clark assists)
- 4th Quarter81-86Arike Ogunbowale makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter82-86Lexi Held makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter82-87Paige Bueckers makes free throw 2 of 2
Win probability
Above the line favours Dallas Wings, below favours Phoenix Mercury.
Venue
- College Park CenterArlington, TX
- Attendance6251
- OfficialsKevin Fahy, Marcy Williams, Jason Alabanza
Elsewhere
- Dallas Wings vs. Phoenix Mercury - Game Highlights
- Connecticut hosts Minnesota following Miles' 20-point game
- Washington visits Indiana after Mitchell's 33-point game
- Tempo take on the Liberty on 5-game skid
- Seattle visits Golden State on 9-game road slide
- Portland takes on Los Angeles, seeks to halt 3-game slide
- Golden State Valkyries vs. Fire - Game Highlights
- Kaitlyn Chen makes five 3-pointers on the way to 17 points off the bench, Valkyries beat Fire 82-66
WNBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- Phoenix Mercury Edges Dallas Wings in Thrilling FinishSep 21, 2026
- Dallas Wings Defeat Phoenix Mercury 85-70Jun 11, 2026
- Dallas Wings Defeat Phoenix Mercury 97-76Sep 11, 2025