The WNBA's Connecticut Sun and Phoenix Mercury are set to face off again on Sunday, July 19, 2026, in a highly anticipated rematch. The Sun's recent surge in form and the Mercury's struggles make this a fascinating contest, with the odds favoring the Sun to continue their winning streak. Here's a detailed breakdown of the game and my expert analysis.
The Sun's Rising Star
The Connecticut Sun have been on a roll lately, with a 7-18 record placing them 14th in the WNBA standings. Their recent back-to-back wins and five victories in the last eight games have been a welcome change of pace. The Sun's key players, including the probable Brittney Griner (rib injury) and the impressive Leila Lacan (13.3 points, 4.6 assists), have been instrumental in their success. Griner's ability to score and rebound, along with Lacan's playmaking, makes the Sun a formidable force. Aneesah Morrow, with her 10.5 points and 9.4 rebounds, and the rest of the team's contributions have been crucial to their recent form.
The Mercury's Struggles
In contrast, the Phoenix Mercury are battling their own demons, with an 8-18 record and a 13th-place ranking. They are on a five-game losing streak, and their recent loss to the Sun has only added to their woes. The Mercury's key players, like Kahleah Copper (20.6 points) and Alyssa Thomas (14.5 points, 8.0 assists), have been inconsistent, and the team's defensive shortcomings have been exposed. The Mercury's struggles against Eastern Conference opponents, with a poor record against the spread, further highlight their challenges.
The Rebounding Battle
One area where the Sun have dominated in recent games is rebounding. They out-rebounded the Mercury by 34-27 in their previous meeting, and this could be a key factor in their favor. The Sun's ability to control the boards and secure second-chance opportunities will be crucial in their quest for victory.
The Spread and Momentum
The spread favors the Mercury, but the Sun's recent form and momentum make them a compelling bet. The Sun have covered the spread in seven of their last eight games, and their overall performance has been impressive. The Mercury, on the other hand, have failed to cover the spread in their last three games against Eastern Conference opponents, indicating a potential trend.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Connecticut Sun are the better team and are due for a win. Their recent form, rebounding dominance, and overall performance make them a strong favorite. The Mercury's struggles and defensive issues suggest that the Sun will continue their winning streak. I predict the Sun to win the Moneyline (+150) and pull off another upset, showcasing their resilience and determination.
This game is a testament to the WNBA's competitive nature, and I'm excited to see how the Sun and Mercury perform. The Sun's recent success and the Mercury's struggles make this a must-watch contest, and I'm confident in the Sun's ability to secure another victory.
