The Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury are set to clash again in Game 2 of their thrilling desert duel. After a captivating Game 1 victory for the Aces, fans are eagerly anticipating the next showdown. If you’re wondering Where To Watch Las Vegas Aces Vs Phoenix Mercury, you’ve come to the right place. This guide not only tells you how to tune in but also dives deep into the key factors that will decide Game 2 of this electrifying WNBA semifinals series.
In Game 1, the No. 2 seed Aces successfully defended their home court against the No. 5 seed Mercury. Now, all eyes turn to Thursday night for Game 2, scheduled for 10 p.m. ET, and broadcast on ESPN2. But before you settle in to watch, let’s break down the crucial questions that could dictate the flow of this pivotal matchup.
Aces’ Backcourt Brilliance or Battle of the Bigs: What Will Dominate Game 2?
Historically, when you think of a Las Vegas Aces versus Phoenix Mercury game, the spotlight often falls on the towering figures in the paint. Names like A’ja Wilson and Liz Cambage for the Aces, and Brittney Griner for the Mercury, immediately come to mind. Brianna Turner, another All-Defensive team player for Phoenix, also adds to this formidable frontcourt presence.
While Brittney Griner delivered a stellar performance in Game 1 with 24 points, Wilson and Cambage had relatively quieter offensive nights than expected. A’ja Wilson did step up in crunch time, scoring six of her 15 points in the final quarter, but it was the Aces’ guards who truly stole the show in the opening game.
Riquna Williams exploded for 17 points in the first half and finished with a game-high 26. Kelsey Plum was equally impactful, pouring in 20 of her 25 points in the second half. Chelsea Gray’s contribution was also undeniable. Often more of a facilitator, Gray showcased a perfect blend of scoring and playmaking, achieving a double-double with 17 points and an impressive 12 assists.
OH! MY! CHELSEA GRAY! // #ALLIN pic.twitter.com/7GonoM7A4b
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) September 29, 2021
If the Aces’ backcourt maintains this level of performance, they will be tough to beat, even if Skylar Diggins-Smith rebounds from her 10-point Game 1 outing.
However, it’s hard to imagine the post players staying out of the limelight for long. The matchup between Liz Cambage and Brittney Griner was lighthearted in Game 1, but expect the intensity to rise. If Wilson and Cambage face increased pressure to score, and Griner continues to battle double-teams every time she touches the ball, the battle of the bigs could very well become the defining narrative of Game 2.
This back and forth between Brittney Griner and Liz Cambage pic.twitter.com/5e1l9J8IyS
— ESPN (@espn) September 29, 2021
Three-Point Showdown: Can Phoenix Outshoot Vegas from Beyond the Arc?
WNBA followers are well aware of the Aces’ somewhat unconventional approach to the three-point shot. In a league increasingly focused on the analytical advantages of the three-pointer, Aces head coach Bill Laimbeer remains steadfast in his philosophy: dominate the paint and get to the free-throw line. These are areas that, coincidentally, also contribute to efficient offense favored by analytics.
Historically, when the Aces make more three-pointers than their opponents, it significantly boosts their chances of winning.
In Game 1, both the Aces and Mercury connected on nine three-pointers. However, Vegas was more efficient, shooting 9-of-19 compared to Phoenix’s 9-of-31. Advantage: Aces.
SHE’S F33LING IT // #ALLIN pic.twitter.com/Wk0TrQtRXd
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) September 29, 2021
Diana Taurasi’s high volume of three-point attempts (12.5 per game in the playoffs), even while hobbled, is impacting the Mercury’s overall three-point percentage. Phoenix needs to improve their accuracy beyond 29% from three-point range if they aim to steal a win in Las Vegas. On a positive note for Phoenix, Kia Nurse has been shooting well from deep in the playoffs, hitting nearly 39% of her 18 attempts. Sophie Cunningham also has a proven track record of hot shooting from beyond the arc. Utilizing the double teams that Brittney Griner attracts to create open three-point opportunities for Nurse and Cunningham might be a more effective offensive strategy than relying on early-clock, contested threes from Taurasi. Of course, Taurasi, often considered the GOAT, is capable of making incredibly difficult shots, potentially making any strategy seem irrelevant.
Ultimately, for Phoenix to gain an edge, winning the three-point battle is crucial.
Free Throw Frenzy: Will Free Throws Swing the Game?
Adding another layer to the strategic battle, the free-throw line could be a decisive factor in Game 2.
During the regular season, both Vegas and Phoenix excelled at drawing fouls and converting free throws. The Aces led the WNBA with 21.9 free throw attempts per game, closely followed by the Mercury at 19.4 attempts per game.
In Game 1, free throw opportunities were relatively balanced. The Mercury went to the line 16 times, making 13, while the Aces shot 20 free throws, converting 15.
Interestingly, the WNBA’s two free-throw queens – Skylar Diggins-Smith (6.2 attempts per game) and A’ja Wilson (6 attempts per game) – were not major factors in Game 1 in terms of free throw attempts. Diggins-Smith only shot two free throws, not drawing her usual fouls on drives. Wilson got to the line closer to her average but uncharacteristically missed four of her five attempts.
Not stopping Sky. #4TheValley pic.twitter.com/xV3q6jzlz3
— Phoenix Mercury – X (@PhoenixMercury) September 29, 2021
Whether Diggins-Smith and Wilson can increase their free throw attempts and conversions in Game 2 could significantly influence the game’s outcome. Earning and making free throws is a critical component that could swing the momentum in this contest.
Game Information: Las Vegas Aces vs Phoenix Mercury Game 2
No. 2 seed Las Vegas Aces (1-0) vs. No. 5 seed Phoenix Mercury (2-1)
When: Thursday, Sept. 30 at 10 p.m. ET
Where: Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, NV
How to watch: ESPN2 – Tune in to ESPN2 to watch Las Vegas Aces vs Phoenix Mercury live.
Key to the matchup: During the Game 1 broadcast, analysts highlighted the contrasting schedules of the two teams. Phoenix was playing their third game in six days, each game closely contested, while the Aces had a nine-day rest period. Brittney Griner and Skylar Diggins-Smith are leading the playoffs in minutes played, indicating potential fatigue for the Mercury. Game 2 will be their fourth game in eight days. The question is: Do the Mercury have the stamina to match the Aces’ pace, especially with Las Vegas feeding off the home crowd’s energy at Michelob ULTRA Arena? It wouldn’t be surprising if fatigue becomes a significant factor for Phoenix against a fast-paced Aces team.
Aces injury report: Angel McCoughtry (out for season; right knee)
Mercury injury report: None
Make sure you know where to watch Las Vegas Aces vs Phoenix Mercury on ESPN2 this Thursday at 10 PM ET to catch all the action in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this desert basketball rivalry.
