The Mystics fought valiantly against the Liberty, but couldn’t get their first win of the season
With 6:42 left in the game, Stefanie Dolson found Shatori Walker-Kimbrough on a beautiful back cut to give the Mystics their first lead of the game against New York. Washington’s first win of the season came into view as the offense found its groove. 30 seconds later, Sabrina Ionescu hit a spinning three as the shot clock expired despite great defense. The Liberty would go on a 12-2 run shortly after to take control of the game. Washington’s first win will have to wait until (at least) June.
The Liberty jumped out to a 16-point lead by in the second quarter. Sabrina Ionescu lit up the Mystics for 15 points in the first quarter, including a buzzer beater three at the end of the frame. She finished with 24 points on 12 field goal attempts to lead the Liberty in scoring. Kayla Thornton got loose for 20 points while Jonquel Jones (16/10) and Breanna Stewart (18/15) both had double-double.
Ariel Atkins put up 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the Mystics. She also had a late turnover, a rarity for Atkins, that she’d like to have back. The offense is still struggling without Brittney Sykes, but Washington got a ton of help from their bench. Jade Melbourne had a solid night with 11 points and four assists and Myisha Hines-Allen also had 11 points and 7 rebounds.
The Mystics are 0-8 for the second time in team history. The road doesn’t get easier as they take on the undefeated Connecticut Sun on the road on Tuesday.