The Dallas Wings vs Phoenix Mercury split their July 2025 series in dramatic fashion. From rookie breakout performances to veteran dominance, this WNBA rivalry is heating up. Explore the game recaps, standout players, and what to expect in their next showdown.
Dallas Wings vs Phoenix Mercury 2025: A Tale of Youth vs. Experience in WNBA Rivalry
The Wings vs Phoenix continue to deliver one of the most exciting rivalries in the WNBA this season. In July 2025, the two teams faced off in back-to-back matchups, each taking one win in dramatically different styles. The series has showcased rising stars, record-setting performances, and a glimpse into the future of womenâs basketball.
đ Game 1 Recap: Wings Stun Mercury 98â89 (July 3, 2025)
In their first July clash, the Dallas Wings pulled off a stunning 98â89 upset over the Phoenix Mercury at home. Dallas started slow, trailing by double digits early, but stormed back thanks to the fearless play of their rookie core.
Leading the charge was Aziaha James, who erupted for 28 points, showing poise beyond her years. She was joined by fellow rookies Paige Bueckers (23 points) and JJ Quinerly (17 points), making it the first time since 2000 that four rookies started for a WNBA team and contributed this heavily in a win.
Despite a strong showing from Kahleah Copper (25 points for Phoenix), the Mercury struggled to contain Dallasâs fast-paced offense and turnover-generating defense.
đ„ Game 2 Recap: Mercury Dominate Rematch 102â72 (July 7, 2025)
Phoenix answered emphatically in the rematch, routing the Wings 102â72 on their home court. The night belonged to Sami Whitcomb, the undrafted veteran guard, who delivered a career-high 36 points, including seven 3-pointers and a jaw-dropping 29-point first halfâthe most in the WNBA this season.
Adding to the dominance was Alyssa Thomas, who recorded a triple-double (15 points, 15 assists, 10 rebounds), anchoring both ends of the court and exposing Dallasâs inexperience.
The Wings committed 13 turnovers and were held to 36% shooting, a stark contrast from their earlier win. The result reaffirmed Phoenixâs position as a title contender and highlighted the learning curve for Dallasâs young roster.
đ Team Comparison & Trends Wings vs Phoenix
| Category | Dallas Wings | Phoenix Mercury |
|---|---|---|
| Record (as of July 8) | 6â14 | 13â6 |
| Key Players | Paige Bueckers, James | Thomas, Copper, Whitcomb |
| Strengths | Young core, energy | Experience, depth, scoring |
| Weaknesses | Turnovers, consistency | Perimeter defense |
Dallas has now won 4 of their last 6 games, driven largely by rookie contributions, while Phoenix remains among the top 5 teams in the league with a veteran-driven, high-scoring lineup.
â Players to Watch Wings vs Phoenix
- Paige Bueckers (Wings): A former college superstar and now a WNBA rookie standout, sheâs proving to be a future face of the league.
- Aziaha James (Wings): An explosive scorer who thrives under pressureâemerging as a go-to guard.
- Sami Whitcomb (Mercury): The 36-year-old veteran made WNBA history with her 36-point outburst, reminding everyone of her clutch gene.
- Alyssa Thomas (Mercury): A triple-double machine with elite vision and physicalityâstill one of the league’s most complete players.
đ§ What This Means for the Season
The Wingsâ performance proves that while theyâre young, theyâre not to be underestimated. Their rookies are gaining confidence and chemistry with every game. Coach Latricia Trammellâs bold decision to start four rookies has breathed new life into Dallasâs rebuild.
Meanwhile, the Mercury continue to show why they are a legitimate championship threat. With proven leaders like Thomas and breakout performances from players like Whitcomb, Phoenix is deep, dangerous, and playoff-bound.
The split in this two-game series reflects the balance of power and promiseâa rivalry thatâs both current and future-focused.
đ Next Matchups to Watch: Wings vs Phoenix
- July 11, 2025 â Phoenix Mercury (Home) vs. Dallas Wings
- September 11, 2025 â Dallas Wings (Home) vs. Phoenix Mercury
These Wings vs Phoenix games could be pivotal for playoff seeding and will surely feature more intensity, as Dallas aims to prove they can compete consistently with elite teams.
đ Conclusion
The 2025 Wings vs Phoenix matchup is becoming one of the must-watch showdowns in the WNBA. Itâs not just a contest of wins and lossesâitâs a battle of generational change vs. veteran dominance. With electrifying talent on both sides, fans can expect this rivalry to remain a WNBA headline for seasons to come.