Alyssa Thomas made a crucial free throw to win the game for the Phoenix Mercury, ending the match 78-77 against the Golden State Valkyries. Despite the victory, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase criticized the call that awarded the free throw, expressing her belief that it undermines the integrity of the game. The game saw shifts in momentum, with Golden State initially outscoring Phoenix early, only for Phoenix to regain the lead late in the first half. Nakase insisted that the officiating favored Phoenix in terms of physicality.
Alyssa Thomas secured a 78-77 victory for the Phoenix Mercury with a last-second free throw as boos echoed from the crowd. Coach Natalie Nakase expressed disappointment that the game was decided at the free throw line, stating, "It's so unfortunate that they get a win off of a free throw with no defense." Nakase pleaded for consistency, arguing the game's physicality favored her team less than Phoenix and emphasizing, "You have to win off of great shots."
Golden State got off to a slow start, outscored 12-2 in the opening minutes, then closed the first quarter on an 18-4 run. Phoenix countered by outscoring Golden State 11-3 in the last minutes of the first half to hold a four-point lead.
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