Published May 29, 12:21am ET by
James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated May 29, 12:21am ET
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Updated May 29, 12:21am ET
One of Friday's WNBA matchups features the New York Liberty hosting the Phoenix Mercury. Who has the edge in our Liberty vs Mercury pick?
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| New York Liberty | -5.5 (-110) |
| Phoenix Mercury | +5.5 (-110) |
New York had dropped three straight following a 3-1 start. Fortunately, the team ended the streak with an 84-74 victory against the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday night.
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The Liberty trailed 43-42 at the break. But thanks to a decisive 30-12 surge in the third quarter, the home team cruised to a double-digit win.
Marine Johannes scored a team-high 21 points, to go along with five assists and three rebounds. She also converted seven of her nine attempts from distance. Jonquel Jones added a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds.
The Mercury produced a 2-2 record through their first four contests. Their 84-74 loss to New York extended the team's losing streak to four games.
Despite just two wins on its resume, Phoenix kept it close early. Unfortunately, the Mercury surrendered a 23-0 run that spanned nearly seven minutes. The result was a 72-55 deficit heading into the fourth quarter.
Kahleah Copper was one of two players who reached double figures for the road team. She finished with 19 points on 6-of-18 shooting from the field. Natasha Mack added 14 points and six rebounds on an efficient 6-for-7 effort.
Phoenix was competitive in nearly every statistical category, except ball security. The Mercury committed 17 turnovers, leading to 26 points for New York. That number will have to improve if they hope to end their four-game skid.
New York enters this interconference tilt as a 5.5-point favorite. Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of Friday's matchup.
The Liberty are 2-3 in the previous five meetings in this series. Meanwhile, Phoenix is 2-8 across its last 10 road outings. Based upon what unfolded between these teams a few nights ago, the edge goes to New York.
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Pick
New York Liberty (-5.5)
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