PHOENIX, AZ – In a dazzling display of offensive prowess that sent ripples across the league, two-time WNBA champion Sami Whitcomb carved out a new chapter in her storied career on Monday, July 7, 2025. Her scorching 36-point performance not only propelled the Phoenix Mercury to a decisive 102-72 victory over the Dallas Wings but also captured the immediate attention of the Women’s National Basketball Association itself, which swiftly acknowledged her monumental achievement.
From the opening tip, it was clear Whitcomb was dialed in. The veteran guard, known for her sharp-shooting and tenacity, seemingly couldn’t miss, especially from beyond the arc. She connected on an astounding 7-for-11 from three-point range, lighting up the Footprint Center with a flurry of long-range bombs that left the Dallas defense scrambling. Her 29 points in the first half alone were the most scored by any WNBA player in a single half this season, a testament to her red-hot shooting. By the third quarter, a foul on a three-point attempt saw her at the free-throw line, where she officially surpassed her previous career-best, ultimately finishing with a dominant 36.
This extraordinary individual effort wasn’t just a personal best; it was a statement. For the Phoenix Mercury, who are navigating a competitive 2025 season, Whitcomb’s offensive explosion provided a much-needed spark and prevented their first three-game losing streak of the year. The win against the Wings, a team that had recently defeated them, felt like a significant rebound, showcasing the Mercury’s resilience and potential.
The WNBA wasted no time in celebrating Whitcomb’s sensational night. Social media channels buzzed with highlights and recognition, underlining the league’s commitment to showcasing its incredible talent. This timely announcement from the WNBA reinforces the league’s growing visibility and its dedication to amplifying player achievements.
Beyond Whitcomb’s individual brilliance, the game also featured another remarkable performance: Phoenix forward Alyssa Thomas notched her 16th career triple-double with 15 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds. This historic feat further solidified Thomas’s reputation as one of the most versatile and impactful players in the league, demonstrating the depth of talent within the Mercury squad. The combination of Whitcomb’s scoring outburst and Thomas’s all-around mastery proved too much for the Dallas Wings, who were without key starters Arike Ogunbowale and DiJonai Carrington.
The excitement generated by Whitcomb’s career night is indicative of the broader momentum currently sweeping through the WNBA. Just recently, on June 30, 2025, the league announced a landmark expansion, welcoming three new teams in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia (2030). This expansion, bringing the total number of franchises to a historic 18, signals a new era of growth and increased opportunities for players and fans alike. The infusion of new markets and the rising valuations of existing teams, coupled with record-breaking viewership numbers and passionate fanbases, underscore the league’s flourishing landscape.
Sami Whitcomb, a veteran who has tasted WNBA championship glory twice with the Seattle Storm (2018, 2020), continues to prove her value and impact on the court. Her ability to consistently deliver clutch performances and adapt her game, even in her later years, serves as an inspiration. This career-high performance is more than just a statistic; it’s a testament to her dedication, skill, and enduring passion for the game, reminding everyone that the WNBA continues to be a hotbed of elite talent and thrilling action. As the 2025 season progresses, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what other milestones these remarkable athletes will achieve.
