Alyssa Thomas Delivers Historic Performance, Propels Mercury to Semifinals

PHOENIX — There will be a new WNBA champion in 2025. Alyssa Thomas made sure of it.

Mercury Eliminate Liberty in game 3

Alyssa Thomas recorded the first 20-point triple-double in WNBA postseason history as the Phoenix Mercury advanced to the semifinals by eliminating the defending champion New York Liberty 79-73 in Game 3 on Friday night.

A Record-Breaking Performance

Thomas finished with 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. This historic performance marks her ninth triple-double of the season and solidifies her dominance in the playoffs, owning five of the seven WNBA playoff triple-doubles. She is only the second player to achieve a triple-double in a winner-take-all game, following Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes in 2005.

“this is just what she does,” Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts said. “She impacts the game in so many different ways. She cares about one thing and that’s winning. When you’ve got a player of her caliber and with that much pride to win a game, you’re going to have a great game.”

Fan Support and MVP Recognition

“MVP” chants erupted from the PHX Arena crowd as Thomas shot free throws with 17.6 seconds remaining. This enthusiastic support came on the same day she was named a finalist for the WNBA MVP award.

Thomas’s Journey to Phoenix

thomas,who spent 11 seasons with the Connecticut Sun before being traded to Phoenix during the offseason,embraced Tibbetts and her teammates after the victory. The trade has clearly revitalized both Thomas and the Mercury franchise.

Game Details and Key Contributors

brittney Griner added 16 points for Phoenix, while Marine Johannes contributed 13. Sabrina Ionescu led the Liberty with 22 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Thomas’s remarkable performance and the Mercury’s collective effort.

Looking Ahead

The Phoenix Mercury will now face the winner of the Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces series in the semifinals. This victory marks a important turning point for the Mercury, who are now serious contenders for the WNBA championship.

Key Takeaways

• Alyssa Thomas recorded the first 20-point triple-double in WNBA playoff history.
• The Phoenix mercury eliminated the defending champion New York Liberty in Game 3.
• Thomas is a finalist for the WNBA MVP award.
• The Mercury are advancing to the semifinals.

Publication Date: 2025/09/20 11:16:37