Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WNBA match.
The series is tied 1-1, and Game 3 of the WNBA semi-finals will be played in Arizona. The hosts received a major boost after a 20-point comeback in Game 2, one of the biggest in play-off history. However, the Minnesota Lynx remain favourites for the series and the season as a whole, having looked a cut above the field in the regular season.
Phoenix Mercury
The Phoenix Mercury were underdogs but flipped Game 2 on its head, closing out an 89:83 overtime win. The squad showed resilience and gained a psychological lift ahead of the home date. On their home court, the team have been around .500, yet against top opposition they often lack depth. In head-to-head play-off games, the Mercury are reliant on their leaders; if those players dip, the squad can lose their way.
Minnesota Lynx
The Minnesota Lynx remain the leading contenders for the title. They finished four wins clear of any rival in the regular season, playing the best basketball. In Game 1, the team clicked after half-time and pulled away to win 82:69. In the next contest, the Minnesota Lynx had an almost 99 per cent win probability when 20 up in the third quarter, but complacency led to a collapse. Despite that slip, the statistics and depth are still with the visitors: the Lynx are consistent and disciplined and can defend for 40 minutes.
Phoenix Mercury vs Minnesota Lynx Prediction
The Phoenix Mercury have momentum from the comeback, but in structural terms their resources are inferior. The Minnesota Lynx dominated the regular season, and if they play all four quarters without a lull, they should take the game. With the series level, championship nous and balanced play tilt this towards the visitors.
