The Mercury are rising. Pay attention.

PHOENIX — They’re a team that lives up to their name. In their first semifinals run since 2021, the Phoenix Mercury aren’t just giving fans something to look forward to, they’re giving them a future to believe in.

After a triumphant comeback in Game 2 of the WNBA semifinals against the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx, fans across the league are taking notice.

At the heart of Phoenix’s postseason push is Alyssa Thomas. The six-time WNBA All-Star and Olympian is casually leading the league in triple-doubles this season, all while making it look effortless. Her attitude on the court feels like a throwback to the gritty, in-your-face style of Diana Taurasi — the retired Mercury legend known for embracing competition and chaos in equal measure.

And the chemistry? Off the charts. Thomas shares the court with longtime WNBA vet and fiancée DeWanna Bonner. DB was a key piece in Phoenix’s last championship win back in 2014.

It’s not just AT making her mark in the postseason, though. Phoenix’s “big three” is made up of Satou “The Unicorn” Sabally and Philly’s own, Kahleah Copper. All three have consistently scored 10+ points each in the postseason while putting on a show for fans and foes alike. It’s easy to say they’ve set a precedent for what to expect in Game 3 in Phoenix on Friday.

The Minnesota Lynx, led by MVP finalist and fellow Olympian, Napheesa Collier aren’t an easy team to beat either. Aside from their number one seed position, their other starters carry a loud fandom and stats to back it up. Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman are the streaming duo behind “StudBudz.”

Game 3 in Phoenix didn’t come easy, and the series hasn’t been without a little head-butting. Alyssa Thomas and Napheesa Collier shared an intense stare-down during Game 2, with many fans recalling Thomas’ statement after their first playoff win, “She’s gotta guard me too.” A hard-fought Game 1 loss ( 69-82) and the 20-point deficit turnaround Game 2 win on Tuesday (89-83) were huge for the team and their faithful fanbase, known affectionately as the X-Factor.

“I’m excited to see AT and DB (DeWanna Bonner) working together. We want to see more 3 pointers from Kahleah Copper and them ‘StudBudz’ to have more free time on their podcast,” says Diani S. of Phoenix.

“I’m excited to see the Mercury show more of that energy from Game 2. The no-holds-barred, hustle and drive to fight for that spot. We’re kinda being labeled as underdogs, but I think if we can keep that energy, we got this,” said Christa R. of Phoenix.

With no anticipated injuries from Phoenix for Friday night’s game, it’s no wonder that they’re on the rise. With a team like this, please advise that if you haven’t been paying attention, it’s about time.

RELATED: Fan proposes at a Mercury game