The Connecticut Sun (26-10) will look to extend a three-game road winning run when taking on the Phoenix Mercury (17-19) on Friday, September 13, 2024 at Footprint Center, airing at 10:00 PM ET.
The Connecticut Sun look for a win after winning 12 of their last 18 games. The Sun have won 8 of their last 11 road games. The Connecticut Sun are averaging 80.1 points on 44.2 percent shooting and allowing 73.9 points on 43.2 percent shooting. DeWanna Bonner is averaging 15.6 points and 2 assists, while Marina Mabrey is averaging 14.8 points and 3.2 assists. Brionna Jones is the third double-digit scorer and DiJonai Carrington is dishing 1.5 assists. The Connecticut Sun are shooting 32.5 percent from beyond the arc and 75.2 percent from the free throw line. The Connecticut Sun are allowing 31.4 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.3 rebounds per game.
The Phoenix Mercury need a win after losing 7 of their last 10 games. The Mercury have lost 4 of their last 5 home games. The Phoenix Mercury are averaging 81.7 points on 43.8 percent shooting and allowing 84.6 points on 43.3 percent shooting. Kahleah Cooper is averaging 21.6 points and 4.6 rebounds, while Brittney Griner is averaging 17.6 points and 6.4 rebounds. Diana Taurasi is the third double-digit scorer and Natasha Cloud is grabbing 4.1 rebounds. The Phoenix Mercury are shooting 33.5 percent from beyond the arc and 80.4 percent from the free throw line. The Phoenix Mercury are allowing 33.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.6 rebounds per game.
The Phoenix Mercury will be without Charisma Osborne and Rebecca Allen, while Kahleah Copper is questionable with a back injury. The Connecticut Sun will be without Tiffany Mitchell.
The Phoenix Mercury are falling apart with losses in 7 of their last 10 games, and now they could be without Kahleah Copper, which doesn’t help matters. I want nothing to do with the Mercury in this spot. The Connecticut Sun still have a shot at the second seed, so there’s motivation to get this game. Also, the Sun have won all 3 games against the Mercury this season by double digits. I have no choice but to lay the points with the Sun on the road.
Connecticut Sun's Recent Success
The Sun are coming off a strong performance against the Los Angeles Sparks, defeating them 86-66 in their last game. They dominated the Sparks on both ends of the court, showcasing their strong defense and balanced offensive attack. The Sun's success can be attributed to their ability to force turnovers and control the boards.
Marina Mabrey's Impact
Marina Mabrey had a standout performance in the Sun's victory over the Sparks, leading the team with 26 points. Her offensive contributions were crucial for the Sun's success, demonstrating her impact on the court.
Phoenix Mercury's Struggles
The Phoenix Mercury, on the other hand, are struggling to find their footing. They are on a seven-game losing streak and have lost five of their last six. Their offensive inconsistencies and defensive vulnerabilities have led to their recent struggles. With a key player, Kahleah Copper, potentially sidelined with a back injury, the Mercury's situation may worsen.
Diana Taurasi's Performance
Diana Taurasi has been a bright spot for the Mercury, showing flashes of her brilliance even amidst the team's struggles. However, her efforts alone won't be enough to turn the tide for the Mercury.
Factors Influencing The Game
Several factors will likely influence the outcome of the game between the Sun and the Mercury. The Mercury's lack of depth, compounded by potential injuries, could be a significant factor. [The Sun's defensive prowess and balanced offensive attack are likely to pose significant challenges for the Mercury.](https://www.bleachernation.com/picks/2024/09/13/sun-vs-mercury-best-bets-player-props-computer-picks-sept-13/)
Home Court Advantage
The Mercury will be playing at home at Footprint Center, which could provide a slight advantage. However, the Sun have shown resilience on the road, making the home court advantage less significant.
Prediction and Picks
Given the Sun's recent success, the Mercury's struggles, and the potential impact of Copper's injury, [The Sun appear to be the more favored team in this matchup.](https://sportsbookwire.usatoday.com/article/sun-vs-mercury-odds-tips-and-betting-trends-9-13-2024/) The Sun have dominated the Mercury this season, winning all three previous encounters by double digits. Based on these factors, the Sun are the pick to win against the spread.
The Bottom Line
The Connecticut Sun are poised to continue their winning ways against a struggling Phoenix Mercury team. Their balanced offense and dominant defense will be too much for the Mercury to handle. [The Sun's focus and determination will likely lead them to victory, extending their winning streak in the process.](https://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/fieldlevel/alyssa-thomas-sun-take-aim-at-struggling-mercury/article_759f154e-e60d-5840-8e9d-4e4f3c366b96.html)
