With the win, the Mystics have moved into a tie for the 8th and final playoff spot.
Mystics get a huge win on the road against the Dream, 72-69.
This game got off to an ugly start for both teams as neither team could get a rhythm. The Mystics’ 1st quarter was mired with 7 turnovers, which gave Atlanta an opportunity to open up an early 10-point advantage.
This game took a turn in the 2nd quarter as the Mystics were much cleaner with the ball, but they also turned up the defensive intensity. The Dream missed their first 15 field goals in the quarter, scoring their first field goal with just 1:30 left in the quarter. They finished with only 10 points for the entire quarter. Mystics were only up 34-30 at the half, which was surprising considering the Dream were only shooting 25 percent from the field at that point.
In the 3rd quarter, Mystics started getting sloppy again with the ball, committing another 6 turnovers, which fueled the Dream’s come back after being down by as many as 11 points. Dream would get as close as one point.
Mystics despite their up and down play, scrapped together some key baskets in the 4th quarter and hold on for the close win.
This win, combined with Sky losing, puts the Mystics in a tie for the 8th and final playoff spot with the Sky.
There is not much of a break, Mystics will come back home to face the Dream again on Sunday at ESA, with that 8th seed still up for grabs for both teams.
Sykes was amazing tonight
Brittney Sykes had a stellar night. Although she committed 6 turnovers, due to the physical play early on, she took her frustration out on the Dream, scoring 20 points including hitting all 3 of her 3-point attempts. Despite the rough start, she was the key to the Mystics’ victory.
Bench was the difference
The Mystics’ bench was the difference in this game. Coach Thibault opted to give the bench extended time late in the 3rd and into the 4th and they delivered, outscoring the Dream’s bench, 26-11.