A historic preseason ends as the Phoenix Mercury look for redemption in 2026

Apr 29, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) drives to the basket against Japan guard Nanako Todo (75) during a WNBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images This year’s preseason was a little different, with the Mercury visiting South Dakota to play in the WNBA’s first-ever game in the state.

Phoenix also faced off against Team Japan, giving themselves a feel for international competition just before the start of the regular season. Head coach Nate Tibbetts said pregame the Japan exhibition would be “fast-paced” and “fun,” acknowledging former Mercury head coach Corey Gaines — who won a title with the franchise in 2009 — and knowing they’d be ready to compete. “They went into Vegas the other night and competed at a high level, and I expect our group to come out and compete tonight,” Tibbetts said.

Apr 29, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts in the huddle with his players against Japan during a WNBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Mercury didn’t just compete — they took control of the game and never looked back.

Their dominant 86-60 win was led by a 17-point surge from Kahleah Copper and a defensive showing all around, keeping Japan from being a factor beyond the arc. While both exhibition games were significant in their own ways in reaching new audiences for Mercury basketball, it was still business for the group. The preseason is about more than just shaking offseason rust — it’s about finding chemistry and setting the tone for the start of the year.