After an electric and an up-and-down game, the Las Vegas Aces finally edged out the Phoenix Mercury in a close 89-86 win. But when we consider how the Aces started the game, it is not hard not to think that the Phoenix Mercury missed out on a golden chance to take control of the series. However, while they did lose the game, there was an even bigger scare as their best player, Alyssa Thomas, kept flexing her left hand and looked in clear discomfort.

Her struggle was evident late in the game, standing at the free-throw line with just 24.6 seconds remaining, only to miss both shots. That raised more concern among fans that her left-hand injury might be affecting her shooting. After the game, she had an MRI to better assess the damage, leaving Phoenix Mercury fans anxious about the severity of her condition. Here’s a look at what’s currently known about Alyssa Thomas’ injury and her status heading into Game 2.

Will Alyssa Thomas play in Game 2?

Yes. According to the recent report, Alyssa Thomas’ MRI came back clean, and she is good to go for Monday night’s Game 2 against the Las Vegas Aces. ESPN reporter Kendra Andrews confirmed this update. In her X post, Kendra wrote, “Alyssa Thomas underwent an MRI on her left hand last night and the results are clean, sources tell ESPN. She was flexing her hand throughout the end of the game, appearing to be in some discomfort. But she is cleared for Game 2.”

Even before the update regarding her injury was confirmed, Alyssa Thomas had already said that her hand was “fine.” She also sent a calming message to the fans after losing a chance to cash in on the Las Vegas Aces’ late-game breakdown. She said, “It happens. The series is not won or lost in the first game. So yeah, we would like to have that win but we have plenty more games to play.”

This news of Alyssa Thomas being fit for Game 2 is not just great news for the Phoenix Mercury but also for the basketball fans around the world. In a high-pressure situation like the WNBA Finals, everybody wants it to be a contest between two of the best players in the league. An injury to any big player would spoil all the fun.

Probable lineup for the Phoenix Mercury

Heading into Game 2, the Phoenix Mercury will try and hold the Las Vegas Aces to yet another slow start and this time around, make full use of the opportunity. To do that, they would want to put on their best starting five on the floor. Let’s take a look at what could probably be the lineup for the Phoenix Mercury.

• Alyssa Thomas (#25)
• Natasha Mack (#4)
• Satou Sabally (#0)
• Kahleah Copper (#2)
• Monique Akoa Makani (#8)

Although she is not in the starting lineup, DeWanna Bonner will have the all-important task of rallying the Phoenix Mercury’s bench. In Game 1, they were outscored by 41-16; therefore, for the Mercury to have any chance of winning the game, they need DeWanna Bonner and Co. to shine in Game 2.

Will they spring a surprise? Or will we continue to follow the same script?