Nogic’s 27-Point Breakout Lifts Phoenix Past Chicago After Late Collapse Threat.

PHOENIX — Phoenix Mercury nearly let a commanding second-half lead slip away Friday night, but rookie Jovana Nogic delivered a late surge to secure a 91-83 win over Chicago Sky.

Nogic, the 28-year-old rookie from Serbia, led Phoenix with 27 points, helping steady the Mercury after they squandered a 17-point advantage in the second half. The win moves Phoenix to 2-2 on the season. Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper added 17 points apiece for Phoenix, and both played key roles down the stretch alongside Nogic. The trio combined for the Mercury’s final seven points, along with crucial rebounds and defensive stops, after Chicago cut the deficit to 84-83 with just over two minutes remaining. Natasha Mack contributed 10 points for Phoenix, which was highly efficient at the line, converting 37 of 41 free throws on a night that also marked head coach Nate Tibbetts’ 49th birthday. For Chicago, Rickea Jackson powered the offense with a game-high 29 points, repeatedly keeping the Sky within striking distance late in the fourth quarter. Jackson briefly swung momentum Chicago’s way with a go-ahead three-pointer that gave the Sky a 75-73 lead, followed later by another bucket that put them ahead 80-79 with under four minutes to play.

Rookie Gabriela Jaquez finished with 13 points, while Kamilla Cardoso was limited to seven. Skylar Diggins, averaging 18 points entering the game, did not score before exiting in the second quarter after suffering an eye injury. Chicago briefly seized control late, erasing most of Phoenix’s lead after the Mercury went up 45-30 following a technical foul sequence that helped extend their halftime advantage to 45-35. The Sky continued to chip away, closing the third quarter down just 69-59 before their final push fell short. Phoenix, however, responded when it mattered most, holding firm in the final minutes to avoid another late-game collapse and seal the home victory.

Up next: Chicago continues its road swing at Minnesota on Sunday, while Phoenix remains home to face Toronto on Tuesday.