Portland Fire Spoil Taurasi Ring Night 88-85 Phoenix

Carla Leite poured in 23 points to lift the Portland Fire to an 88-85 road win over Phoenix, clutching a late 6-0 run to put Portland ahead 81-80 with 1:12 remaining. The win came as Phoenix honored Diana Taurasi with halftime and postgame ceremonies after her jersey was retired, cementing her status as the Mercury's all-time leader. Leite also contributed five assists on 9-for-15 shooting as Portland improved to 15-20. DeWanna Bonner led Phoenix with 23 points, and Kahleah Copper added 19 with seven rebounds as the Mercury built a 42-36 halftime edge. Bridget Carleton made a critical block and then sank two free throws in the final seconds to seal the Fire's victory. The game marked Taurasi's milestone moment after a 20-season career, during which she won three championships with Phoenix.