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

Phoenix Mercury tries new lineups amid playoff elimination

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 2:45 PM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Phoenix Mercury tries new lineups amid playoff elimination

Summary

The Phoenix Mercury faced the Washington Mystics on August 27, losing 80-73. Kahleah Copper celebrated her birthday early with a standout performance, scoring 35 points. Although eliminated from playoff contention, coach Nate Tibbetts is utilizing the remaining games to evaluate younger players like Shay Ciezki and Maddy Westbeld. With the final game before the World Cup break on August 29 against the Toronto Tempo, the Mercury will continue experimenting with player rotations.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Kahleah Copper scored 35 points in loss to Washington Mystics.
•Phoenix eliminated from playoff contention with a 13-26 record.
•Coach Nate Tibbetts is evaluating younger players like Ciezki and Westbeld.
•Final game before World Cup break is against the Toronto Tempo on August 29.
•Kelsey Plum did not play due to injury management for the World Cup.

Latest Updates

2:45 PMYahoo Sports — Familiar faces, new sources help Phoenix Mercury in remaining stretch

What they're saying

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The Mercury will try out different rotations in the remainder of the season, including ones with younger players looking to break into the WNBA.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Phoenix Mercury Washington Mystics WNBA Basketball