PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury bounced back from their short two-game skid, taking a 91-83 win over the Chicago Sky that showcased the defensive identity they’ve hung their hat on.
The three-game stretch to start the season tested the Mercury core, with players still out and demanding quick turnarounds. Even with a close game against the Minnesota Lynx and a brewing comeback against the , Phoenix hadn’t quite found its identity as changes were constant.
Q&A
What was the final score of the Phoenix Mercury vs. Chicago Sky game on May 15, 2026?
The Phoenix Mercury won the game against the Chicago Sky with a score of 91-83.
How did the Phoenix Mercury perform defensively against the Chicago Sky?
The Phoenix Mercury showcased their defensive identity, which has been a key aspect of their game, during the match against the Chicago Sky.
Who were the standout players in the Phoenix Mercury vs. Chicago Sky game?
Jovana Nogic and Alyssa Thomas were notable players for the Phoenix Mercury during their victory over the Chicago Sky.
What was the significance of the Phoenix Mercury's win against the Chicago Sky?
The win was significant as it marked a bounce-back for the Mercury after a two-game losing streak, reaffirming their defensive capabilities.
Related Articles
Sports
Soon-to-become Real Madrid manager wants club legend in his sporting staff – report
Jose Mourinho set to return as Real Madrid manager, seeks club legend for staff.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Cricket·Recap
IPL 2026 | 'The only thing can harm us ... ': Rishabh Pant opens up despite LSG win vs CSK
Despite a win over CSK, Rishabh Pant reflects on LSG's disappointing IPL 2026 season.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Opción de venganza para Galán y Chingotto ante Lebrón y Augsburger
Galán y Chingotto se preparan para un enfrentamiento de venganza contra Lebrón y Augsburger en Buenos Aires.
Marca··1 min read
Soccer·Feature
“I will probably be” – Romeo Lavia makes major admission as he opens up on Chelsea project
Romeo Lavia expresses confidence in Chelsea project ahead of FA Cup final
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports·Feature
In Senegal’s wrestling arenas, rituals share the spotlight with the fight, in photos
Experience the blend of rituals and wrestling in Senegal's arenas.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Juventus make their move for another beloved Liverpool star
Juventus is making moves for another beloved Liverpool player as summer transfers heat up.
With two days away from competition, it gave the Mercury time to reset and go over what changes needed to be made.
Head coach Nate Tibbetts stressed that his team needed to reestablish their foundation defensively, to play with energy, passion and toughness. Offensively, to execute their game plans. Against a retooled Sky roster, Phoenix needed to establish control on both sides of the ball.
May 15, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) shields the ball from Chicago Sky guard Gabriela Jaquez (11) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Still, the Phoenix head coach felt the club’s chemistry was improving day by day.
“I feel like there’s still change coming,” Tibbetts said. “But not like at the rate that we had. I think we’re starting to solidify ourselves. I’m excited that we get a game here tonight. We need a couple more days, but we are getting definitely closer, and so I think all of us are feeling better about that.”
Phoenix responded promptly.
Jovana Nogic was once again the star of the night, pouring in a team-leading and career-high 27 points while helping the Mercury build a double-digit second-half lead. Phoenix shot efficiently throughout the night and controlled the pace early, taking a 45-35 advantage into halftime before leading by as many as 17 points.
The Mercury’s defensive pressure also stood out. Phoenix forced difficult looks throughout the first half and limited Chicago’s rhythm offensively, holding the Sky to 35 first-half points before weathering a late comeback attempt.
Even as Chicago erupted for 48 second-half points and cut the deficit down late, the Mercury executed down the stretch to secure their first home victory of the season and improve to 2-2.
Phoenix looked like a team beginning to settle into its identity on both ends of the floor. If it can pair Friday’s defensive intensity with its growing offensive chemistry as pieces come back around, it may finally be turning a corner early in the season.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
