The Phoenix Mercury just handed the New York Liberty a rare loss — and they did it without Kahleah Copper. Alyssa Thomas was the heart, soul, and muscle of the win, dominating both ends of the floor and putting the league on notice: she belongs in every MVP conversation. Erika and Stephen break down AT’s impact, how Monique Akoa Makani & Kit Laksa stepped up, and what this win says about the Mercury’s identity when their leader is sidelined. Plus: a look ahead at the Chicago matchup and where Phoenix stands in the playoff picture.

timestamps

0:00 – Intro

2:00 – Thank you DIEHARDS!

6:00 – Double vote day!

9:00 – Alyssa Thomas is ONE OF ONE

20:00 – Tech Talk

33:00 – Defensive dominance

48:00 – Kahleah Copper = Mercury’s biggest fan?!

51:00 – Natasha Mack

54:00 – Returning home after forever

58:00 – Mo’ Money

1:01:00 – Predictions

1:04:00 – X-Factor benefits