By Shawn McCullough
The Phoenix Mercury stole home court advantage with a 117-91 blowout of the Las Vegas Aces at the Michelob Ultra Arena.
“Effort, we didn’t have it tonight,” said head coach Bill Laimbeer. “They played harder because they wanted it more than us.”
Laimbeer wasn’t happy with his team’s performance, but also was unhappy with the referees.
“Getting a little tired of the referees and how we’re being refereed,” said Laimbeer.
Kelsey Plum led the Aces with 25 points off the bench, going 10 for 17 from the field including 3 for 8 from three-point range.
The Aces had six players score in double digits, while shooting 52.2% from the field.
The Aces just couldn’t find a way to stop Mercury guard Diana Taurasi, who dropped 37 points, hitting eight three-pointers.
Phoenix started the game fast, building a 17-point lead in the first quarter. The Mercury controlled the game after that.
The Aces and the Mercury are now tied 1-1 in the best of five game series.
The Aces will travel to Phoenix to play game three of the WNBA semifinals on Sunday.
Las Vegas Aces – http://aces.wnba.com
Game Notes:
– The Mercury shot 60.6% from the field.
– The Aces were out-rebounded by Phoenix, 36-23.
– Las Vegas turned the ball over just six times (Phoenix had 14 turnovers).
Game Starters:
F – 22 A’ja Wilson
F – 3 Riquna Williams
C – 41 Kiah Stokes
G – 0 Jackie Young
G – 12 Chelsea Gray
Aces Injury Report:
Angel McCoughtry—Out, right ACL
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