Mercury’s Kahleah Copper moves past ‘f***ing overhinking’ with career-high explosion

PHOENIX– Before Saturday’s game, Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper found herself in a scoring rut. Her 17.1 points per game are a respectable average, but not what she’s used to.

She’s used to big-game explosions and causing havoc for anyone in front of her. Luckily, Saturday’s offensive duel between her and Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum was one for the record books.

The Phoenix guard had 41 points and was in a rhythm all game long. She started the game with 14 points in the first quarter, and that total continued to climb.

However, these weren’t forced shots or her attempt to get herself out of a funk. It was simply taking what was given and trying to pursue something greater.

And with the Mercury being in a rough place, Copper knew she had to clear an important obstacle.

Kahleah Copper’s explosion was what the Mercury needed

Everyone knew it was a matter of time before a big scoring performance occurred, as teammate Natasha Mack referenced postgame.

Ironically enough, head coach Nate Tibbetts was asked how to encourage Copper through her scoring slump. Immediately, he took ownership of not putting her in better positions to score.

Saturday’s game had plenty of that. Pick-and-roll plays, multiple cuts, and inverted screens, among other things, made her life extremely easy.

The loss is what stings the most, considering her performance. Nonetheless, her head coach was elated about the career night.

“I’m happy for her. It’s been a tough start to the year. She puts a lot of pressure on herself. Obviously, all our veterans do… she let it rip tonight.

“She looked like the Kahleah Copper that we know.”

A Kahleah Copper resurgence was a must

Going against a high-octane offense like Los Angeles, the Mercury needed all the firepower they could have. Copper did all of that, and then some. She also had some serious support from Mack, who had six stocks (steals + blocks).

Also, teammates like Noémie Brochant, DeWanna Bonner, and Alyssa Thomas contributed nicely. At the end, it was fatigue and circus-esque shots that allowed the Sparks to come away with the win.

Phoenix will have some rest before taking on the Las Vegas Aces on Wednesday. The last time they met, it was a 33-point assault by the Mercury, something the Aces will hope to avenge.

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