Phoenix’s defense controlled the second half and overtime.
The Mercury outscored the Lynx 47-31 in the second half to erase a 16-point halftime deficit and force overtime.
Phoenix sent Game 2 to overtime on a Sami Whitcomb three-pointer with 4.2 seconds left in regulation. Whitcomb’s leveler came after Alyssa Thomas hunted down an offensive rebound to feed Whitcomb for a second attempt.
The Mercury took over in the extra period, as they outscored the hosts 10-4.
Minnesota lost despite receiving 20-point performances from Naphessa Collier, Courtney Williams and Kayla McBride.
Satou Sabally led the Mercury with 24 points, while Thomas contributed 19 points and 13 assists.
The semifinal series is now headed to Phoenix on Friday. Games 3 and 4 will be in Phoenix. Game 5 will be in Minnesota on September 30 if necessary.
