Phoenix Mercury take the belt

Phoenix Mercury beat New York Liberty 69–50 at home to start reign 2 of the WNBA belt, the 1st for the franchise.

New York Liberty had held it since June 21, 1997, with 6 defenses over 16 days.

Phoenix Mercury held it for 5 days and 1 defense, then lost it to Las Vegas Aces on July 12, 1997.