Leila Lacan Leads Sun Past Mercury 96‑83

Sun Secure Back‑to‑Back Win

Leila Lacan exploded for a career‑high 26 points, converting 10 of 13 shots to power the Connecticut Sun to a 96‑83 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Friday night. The win marks just the second time this season the Sun have recorded consecutive victories and improves their recent mark to 5‑3 in the last eight games. Connecticut (7‑18) now looks to build on the momentum heading into Sunday’s rematch in Phoenix.

Lacun’s Highlight Reel

Lacan’s outburst included a three‑point jumper, a three‑point play, and a layup that capped an 11‑0 run, giving the Sun a 19‑point cushion with 4:10 left in the second quarter. The Mercury were held scoreless for nearly four minutes and went without a made field goal for almost five minutes during the stretch. Eight of the Mercury’s 13 turnovers occurred in the second quarter, fueling Connecticut’s surge.

Key Scorers for the Sun

Kennedy Burke added 13 points, while Brittney Griner and Aaliyah Edwards each tallied 12 points. Diamond Miller contributed 11 points off the bench, providing depth for the Sun’s offensive attack. Griner, playing just her second game in Phoenix after an 11‑season stint with the Mercury, looked solid in limited action.

Mercury’s Slide Continues

Kahleah Copper led Phoenix with 21 points, and Alyssa Thomas posted a double‑double with 15 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Valeriane Ayayi contributed 13 points and DeWanna Bonner grabbed 10 rebounds while adding eight points. The Mercury (8‑18) have now lost five straight games, underscoring their current struggles.

Griner’s Return and Injuries

Griner’s appearance was notable as it was only her second game in Phoenix after parting ways with the franchise following the 2024 season. Saniya Rivers returned from a two‑game absence due to a left ankle sprain, chipping in six points in 14 minutes off the bench. Monique Akoa Makani exited briefly after an incidental elbow from Griner and finished 0‑6 from the floor. Aneesah Morrow (reconditioning) missed her fifth consecutive contest.

Next Steps for Both Teams

The two clubs are set to meet again on Sunday in Phoenix, looking to either continue the Sun’s upward trend or halt the Mercury’s losing streak. Fans can expect another tightly contested matchup as both teams adjust to their current roster situations. The outcome will likely influence each side’s playoff prospects heading into the final stretch of the season.