In a stunning display of long-range accuracy, Connecticut Sun’s veteran guard Rachel Banham made a statement that echoed throughout the WNBA airspace. Banham was on fire this afternoon, knocking down a career-high eight 3-pointers as the Sun dominated the Phoenix Mercury with a final score of 96-89. This phenomenal performance not only tied a franchise record previously held by Shekinna Stricklen but also set a new WNBA record for a player coming off the bench. Banham was just one three-pointer shy of equaling the league record overall, showcasing her sharpshooting abilities on the court.
“I mean, gosh, I just feel like I’ve been waiting for this,” Banham remarked in awe after the game, clearly relishing her record-breaking moment.
Prior to this game, Banham’s season-best marks stood at 16 points and three 3-pointers. The seasoned player had only scored in double-figures twice in her first 19 appearances, with her last 20-point game dating back to 2022. Her previous career-high for 3-pointers was seven back in 2016, underscoring the magnitude of her accomplishment against the Mercury.
In a remarkable turn of events, Banham finished the game with an impressive 24 points, all sourced from beyond the arc where she delivered an exceptional 8 of 11 shooting performance. This standout display underscored her immense talent and marked a memorable milestone in her basketball journey.
With Connecticut’s victory, improving their record to 18-5, the Sun now trail the New York Liberty by just 1.5 games for the best record in the WNBA. The Sun’s bench played a crucial role in the win, contributing 37 points and outscoring their Mercury counterparts by a substantial 23 points. Additionally, Connecticut’s strong home record of 10-3 highlighted their dominance on familiar territory, setting the stage for an exciting playoff run.
Banham’s record-setting performance not only solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA but also propelled the Connecticut Sun closer to championship contention. The veteran guard’s long-distance prowess and unwavering determination have undoubtedly left a lasting impression on fans, teammates, and opponents alike.
