League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Phoenix Mercury eliminated from playoff contention after loss to Atlanta Dream

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 7:22 PM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Phoenix Mercury eliminated from playoff contention after loss to Atlanta Dream

Summary

The Phoenix Mercury were eliminated from playoff contention in a 99-89 loss to the Atlanta Dream on August 22, 2026. With this defeat, the Mercury fell to a 13-24 record, a significant drop from expectations following last year's run to the WNBA Finals. Kahleah Copper scored 38 points, while Angel Reese contributed a career-high 31 points and 14 rebounds for Atlanta, which improved to 24-13 and clinched a playoff spot. The loss leaves the Mercury with seven regular-season games remaining to evaluate their young players and assess the future direction of the team. They will face the Washington Mystics next on August 25.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mercury fall to 13-24 after loss to Dream.
•Copper scores 38 points; Reese records 31 points and 14 rebounds.
•Mercury to play Mystics next on August 25.
•Team seeks to evaluate young players in remaining games.
•Franchise historically accustomed to postseason play.

Latest Updates

7:22 PMYahoo Sports — The Phoenix Mercury find themselves in unfamiliar territory

What they're saying

"
PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury are headed into the final weeks of the regular season with something they rarely have to confront: not playing for a postseason spot. Aug 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) drives to the basket against the Atlanta Dream in the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Dream at Mortgage Matchup Center.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Dream Phoenix Mercury WNBA Basketball