Thrilling Comeback and Stellar Performances Mark Mystics’ Overtime Victory
In a tense and electrifying contest, Sonia Citron positioned herself strategically in the corner and raised her hand twice, signaling her readiness. As the Washington Mystics prepared for their final offensive play, Brittney Sykes executed a precise pass inside to the cutting Shakira Austin. With quick footwork, Austin pivoted left and promptly dished the ball out to an open Citron.
The rookie guard, confident and composed, launched her shot with flawless technique, her right wrist lingering in follow-through. The ball soared through the air without touching the rim, swishing cleanly through the net. With just 12.9 seconds remaining in overtime, Citron raised three fingers in celebration, sealing a memorable victory.
Career-Defining Performance in a Close Win
This clutch shot capped off an outstanding day for Citron, who set personal bests with 27 points and 11 rebounds-her first time reaching such heights in a single game. The Mystics edged out the Dallas Wings 91-88 in a nail-biting overtime clash at CareFirst Arena. Dallas had a chance to tie or win in the final seconds but missed two critical three-point attempts, allowing Washington to secure the win.
“It’s an incredible feeling,” Citron shared postgame. “I was a bit upset with myself earlier because I missed free throws that could have ended the game in regulation. Still, I’m glad I managed to finish it. I really didn’t want to go into double overtime.”
High Stakes Matchup Among Top Draft Picks
The game featured three of the top four selections in this year’s WNBA draft, each of whom demonstrated why their teams invested heavily in them. Citron’s efficiency was notable-she shot 9 for 13 overall, including 4 for 7 from beyond the arc. Her consistency is remarkable; she has scored in double digits in all 14 games of her rookie season, marking the longest streak to start a career since A’ja Wilson’s historic run of 37 consecutive double-digit games with the Las Vegas Aces, spanning her first 33 games in 2018 and four more in 2019.
Throughout the game, Citron also contributed two assists and two steals, often defending the league’s top scorer, Paige Bueckers. When Sykes encountered foul trouble late in the game, Citron seamlessly switched to guard Arike Ogunbowale, a four-time All-Star, showcasing her defensive versatility.
Mentorship and Defensive Prowess
“Sonia genuinely perceives herself as a two-way player,” explained Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson. “She’s not content with just scoring; she strives to be a true defender and play both ends of the floor. Her dedication and desire are truly exceptional.”
Emerging Leaders and Resilience
Meanwhile, Kiki Iriafen made a significant impact with 19 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and five steals. The No. 4 overall pick admitted she was frustrated with her recent performances and decided to focus on attacking the basket rather than settling for jump shots, aiming to bounce back stronger.
“Today, I concentrated more on my defense and tried to prevent the game from flowing easily for the opposition,” Iriafen explained. “I wanted to be more involved on both ends of the court, inspired by Sonia’s example. There’s so much more I can contribute, and I’m eager to do so.”
For the Mystics, Shakira Austin added 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds, while Sug Sutton contributed a season-high 15 points, providing vital support in the victory.
Challenges for Bueckers and the Wings’ Resilience
Paige Bueckers, one of only three players in league history to record at least 180 points, 50 assists, and 40 rebounds within her first 10 games, faced a tough start-scoring just five points in the first half. However, she found her rhythm in the third quarter, ultimately forcing overtime with a clutch three-pointer at the buzzer, tying the game at 84-84 with 11.8 seconds remaining. Bueckers finished with 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists but missed a potential game-tying shot in the final seconds of overtime.
Her early struggles reflect the adjustment to a new team and coaching staff, as her team currently holds a 3-12 record. In her four seasons at Connecticut, Bueckers lost only 13 games, highlighting her previous dominance and the challenge of adapting to a new environment.
“It’s been a rewarding journey,” Bueckers reflected. “There’s been a lot to learn, both as an individual and as part of this team. It’s a new chapter, and we’re all navigating it together. Despite the hurdles, I’m enjoying the process.”
Key Moments and Coaching Tensions
Ogunbowale, who finished with 27 points, had a slow start-scoring only two points in the first quarter-but exploded in the second, tallying 14 points. Her scoring spree included a spectacular circus-style shot in the paint and a foul for a three-point play, followed by a deep three-pointer. Her efforts sparked an 18-1 run that gave the Wings their first lead of the game and shifted momentum firmly in their favor after Washington led 27-14 at the end of the first quarter.
Despite the spirited comeback, the game was not without controversy. Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson received his first technical foul late in the second quarter after expressing intense frustration with referee decisions-standing near the center-court logo, gesturing and shouting at referee Agon Abazi. Sykes had to escort him back to the sideline amidst the heated exchange.
Johnson later commented on his frustration, citing the Wings’ aggressive free-throw attempts-20 in the first half-as a point of contention, questioning the officiating rationale.
Conclusion: A Showcase of Talent and Determination
This game exemplified the rising talent and resilience of young players like Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, who stepped up under pressure and delivered career-best performances. The contest also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by seasoned players adapting to new teams and systems, as well as the intense competitive spirit that defines the WNBA. As the season progresses, these emerging stars and seasoned veterans alike will continue to shape the league’s exciting future.
