Phoenix Mercury guard Natasha Cloud (0) goes up for the shot against the Minnesota Lynx at Footprint Center on June 7, 2024, in Phoenix. © Nicole Mullen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Phoenix Mercury were blown out in the first quarter and looked to have a rough road ahead of them down by as much as 23, but they put up a valiant effort by taking the lead in the fourth quarter, ultimately falling short, however, 102-95 to the Minnesota Lynx in Game 1 of the WNBA Playoffs on Sunday afternoon.
Napheesa Collier had herself a day, going off for 38 points, six rebounds and four assists for the Lynx (1-0). Kayla McBride added 20 points and Bridget Carleton tacked on 12 in the massive first round series opener…