In a notable matchup in Las Vegas, the Phoenix Mercury faced off against the defending WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, on May 8, 2026. The Aces were fresh off their championship celebration, having received their rings before the game, marking a significant night for the team. However, the Mercury came into the game with a strong desire for redemption after being swept by the Aces in the previous season's finals. The Mercury dominated the match from the start, leading by as much as 18 points at one stage and controlling the game throughout with a balanced offensive effort. Alyssa Thomas, a key player for the Mercury, not only led the team in scoring with 20 points but also made significant contributions in playmaking, registering nine assists during the match. Rookie Jovana Nogic also shined in her starting role, scoring 19 points, all in the first half, helping to establish an early lead. Defensively, the Mercury stifled the Aces, forcing them to rely on mid-range shots and limiting their access to the paint effectively. Natasha Mack's presence on the boards was felt as she contributed 15 rebounds to maintain the team's advantage. The Aces struggled to find their rhythm, shooting poorly from three-point range, which put them at a disadvantage. This game marked not just a significant victory for the Mercury but also symbolically addressed their frustrations from the previous season. With both teams having a busy schedule ahead, they would each face another game shortly after this contest, thus making the outcome even more crucial for setting the tone for the season. Overall, the 99-66 outcome is the Mercury's largest win margin of the season, while the Aces faced their most significant loss since a similar defeat years prior. The match highlighted the Mercury's readiness to contend for the championship despite the Aces' recent success.