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WNBA Returns with a Bang: Copper Shines in Mercury Debut, Lynx and Liberty Also Win

The WNBA returned from its Olympic break with a bang, as several teams got back into action with impressive wins. One of the standout performers was Kahleah Copper, who made her debut with the Phoenix Mercury after winning an Olympic gold medal with Team USA.

Copper posted 29 points in an 85-65 win over the Chicago Sky, including 12 points in the fourth quarter. She was welcomed back to Wintrust Arena with a tribute video, honoring her seven seasons with the Sky and her WNBA Finals MVP award in 2021. Copper also received a new nickname, “MF Olympic gold medalist,” courtesy of A’ja Wilson.

The Mercury came out of the break with a 13-12 record, and Copper’s performance was a good first step towards replicating their 10-game winning streak out of the Olympic break in 2021. They’ll face the Indiana Fever on Friday.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Lynx welcomed back two major members of Team USA, head coach Cheryl Reeve and All-Star forward Napheesa Collier. The Lynx needed a fourth-quarter surge to dispatch the Washington Mystics, winning 79-68. Collier posted a game-high 17 points and 12 rebounds.

The Lynx improved their record to a Western Conference-best 18-8 with the win, and will face the Mystics again on Saturday.

In other action, the New York Liberty annihilated the Los Angeles Sparks 103-68, with 27 points from Breanna Stewart. It was their third win of 35-plus points this season, setting a new WNBA record.

The Liberty’s performance didn’t hurt their chances of being considered favorites for the title, as they continue to dominate the league. They’ll look to keep their momentum going in their next game.

Overall, it was a great start to the post-Olympic portion of the WNBA season, with several teams making statements and setting themselves up for a strong finish.