Kahleah Copper Shines in WNBA Return with 29 Points for Mercury
Kahleah Copper Shines in WNBA Return with an Olympic Gold Medal and Stellar Performance
Returning to the WNBA after an exhilarating Olympic victory, Kahleah Copper brought both her gold medal and an assertive new title, thanks to A’ja Wilson. Copper’s impressive performance in her first game back with the Phoenix Mercury showcased her ability to live up to both honors.
Copper’s Triumphant Return to the WNBA
In a commanding 85-65 win over the Chicago Sky, Kahleah Copper scored 29 points, marking a strong start to the post-Olympic segment of the WNBA season. Brittney Griner, another Olympian, added to the victory with 23 points, making 10 of her 12 shots, along with nine rebounds and six assists.
Copper’s return to Wintrust Arena was particularly emotional as it marked her first game there since she was traded to Phoenix after seven seasons in Chicago. The crowd greeted her with a tribute video, celebrating her illustrious career in Chicago, which included a WNBA Finals MVP award in 2021. She was also recognized by her requested title, “MF Olympic gold medalist.”
The Journey to Olympic Gold
Copper’s Heroic Performance in Tokyo
Less than a week before her WNBA return, Copper played a crucial role in securing Team USA’s eighth consecutive women’s basketball gold medal by scoring 12 vital points—all in the fourth quarter—against France. This narrow 67-66 victory not only secured the gold for the U.S. team but also pushed the United States to a tie with China for the most gold medals at the Tokyo Olympics, with a total of 40. The U.S. ultimately topped the medal table due to having more total medals.
Contribution of Team USA Olympians
Brittney Griner’s contribution to both the Olympic team and the Mercury’s recent game cannot be overstated. Her performance in Tokyo was integral to Team USA’s success, and her continued excellence with the Mercury highlights her enduring athletic prowess.
The Mercury’s Post-Olympic Aspirations
Building on Past Success
The Phoenix Mercury entered the post-Olympic break with a 13-12 record, aiming to replicate their impressive 10-game winning streak following the 2021 Olympic break. Thursday’s victory against the Chicago Sky marked a promising start.
Upcoming Challenges
The Mercury’s next challenge is against the Indiana Fever, scheduled for Friday. This game will test the team’s ability to maintain their momentum and continue their winning streak.
Minnesota Lynx and Team USA Contributions
Leadership and Talent
The Minnesota Lynx welcomed back two significant figures from Team USA: head coach Cheryl Reeve and All-Star forward Napheesa Collier. Collier’s return was instrumental in the Lynx’s recent 79-68 victory over the Washington Mystics, where she recorded a game-high 17 points and 12 rebounds.
Maintaining Conference Leadership
This win improved the Lynx’s record to a Western Conference-best 18-8. They are set to face the Mystics again on Saturday, this time on the road, aiming to maintain their top position in the conference standings.
New York Liberty’s Dominance
A Season of Record-Breaking Wins
In a season where the Las Vegas Aces are still finding their footing, the New York Liberty have emerged as strong title contenders. Their recent performance against the Los Angeles Sparks, where they won 103-68, further solidified their status. Breanna Stewart’s 27 points contributed to the Liberty’s third win of the season by a margin of 35 points or more, setting a new WNBA record.
Key Performances and Statistics
- Kahleah Copper: 29 points in her return game
- Brittney Griner: 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists
- Napheesa Collier: 17 points and 12 rebounds in her first game back
- Breanna Stewart: 27 points in the game against the Sparks
FAQs About WNBA and Olympic Athletes
What impact did Kahleah Copper have on Team USA’s gold medal win?
Copper scored 12 crucial points in the fourth quarter of the gold medal game against France, helping secure the victory for Team USA.
How did Brittney Griner perform in the recent WNBA game?
Griner scored 23 points, had nine rebounds, and six assists, contributing significantly to the Mercury’s win over the Chicago Sky.
What is the significance of the tribute video for Kahleah Copper?
The tribute video celebrated Copper’s seven-season tenure with the Chicago Sky, highlighting her achievements, including her WNBA Finals MVP award in 2021.
Why are the New York Liberty considered favorites for the WNBA title?
The Liberty have consistently performed well, including setting a new WNBA record with three wins by a margin of 35 points or more this season.
What are the Phoenix Mercury’s goals for the post-Olympic WNBA season?
The Mercury aim to replicate their 10-game winning streak from the 2021 post-Olympic break and improve their current 13-12 record.
Conclusion
Kahleah Copper’s return to the WNBA was nothing short of spectacular, blending her Olympic triumph with an outstanding performance on the court. Alongside the contributions from other Olympians like Brittney Griner and Napheesa Collier, the league is set for an exciting post-Olympic season. Teams like the New York Liberty are making strong cases for the title, setting new records and showcasing exceptional talent. As the season progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling games and standout performances from these incredible athletes.
