PHOENIX, July 16 (Ticker) -- A week later, Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury made sure there would be a lot less drama against the New York Liberty.

Taurasi scored 18 of her 29 points in the first half as the Mercury posted an 80-70 victory over the Liberty, whose losing streak reached a season-high seven games.

NBA TV highlights from Liberty-Mercury: Play

Jennifer Lacy and Kelly Miller added 12 points apiece for the Mercury, who took control early en route to their second win over the Liberty in a week.

Taurasi scored a career-high 36 points to lead the Mercury to a 94-88 overtime triumph over the Liberty last Sunday.

It was another big game in this one for Taurasi, who made 7-of-10 shots in the first half to help the Mercury build a 41-27 lead. The All-Star made 9-of-19 shots overall.

Penny Taylor scored 10 points and Kamila Vodichkova grabbed 11 rebounds for Phoenix, which shot 48 percent (30-of-62) and overcame 16 turnovers.

Shameka Christon scored 18 points and Loree Moore 17 for the Liberty, who shot just 40 percent (25-of-63).