LAS VEGAS (AP) — Alyssa Thomas wouldn't make excuses for missing two late free throws in Phoenix's WNBA Finals-opening loss to Las Vegas on Friday night.

The Phoenix Mercury's leader had a chance to give her team the lead with 24 seconds left after an official review upheld a foul call on her drive to the basket. Thomas stepped calmly to the free-throw line with her team down 87-86, but missed both attempts as they clanged off the rim.

“It happens,” Thomas told The Associated Press.

The Mercury had one more chance at the end to tie it, but fell short, losing 89-86 . Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is Sunday in Las Vegas.

“The series is not won or lost in the first game,” Thomas said. “So yeah, we would like to have that win but we have plenty more games to play.”

Kahleah Copper s

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