Mystics Beat a worn-down Lynx side with ease

The Minnesota Lynx, who had some trouble while traveling into the District, lost their last game to the Washington Mystics on Japanese Heritage Day by a score of 70–57. That’s a comfortable victory to say the least, given the quality of both sides.

Ariel Atkins contributed 15 points, five rebounds, and three steals in addition to 21 points and 10 rebounds from Elena Delle Donne to help her team win. Her overall game was phenomenal, she was truly an all star playing well in both defense and offence.

After leading 17-13 after the first quarter, it appeared as though the Lynx would cruise to victory.

However, Washington had other ideas, outscoring the Lynx 24-11. Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, a reserve, from the starting lineup came up with 11 points, three rebounds, three assists, and just one missed shot. Now those are some pretty good stats for a reserve, the player clearly let her intention for the rest of the season be known, that she wants to play.

Delle Donne and Atkins were the only starters to reach double figures.

The Mystics’ 12 steals, topped by Atkins’ three, helped them win the game thanks to their defensive play. They often say that defense is also a form of offence and it makes sense. 2 points saved is just as good as 2 points scored, though the latter usually winds up with bigger cheers.

Shakira Austin, Natasha Cloud, Elizabeth Williams, and Alysha Clark each contributed two. Another highlight was Washington’s five blocks of shots. This also means that the Lynx side were not fully up to their best and were seriously slacking.

Kayla McBride led the Lynx in scoring with 16 points, followed by former Mystic Aerial Powers with 11 points. The Mystics were outrebounded by Minnesota 45-38, with Sylvia Fowles and Jessica Shepard leading the way with 12 rebounds each.

General Manager and Head Coach Mike Thibault expressed regret on Twitter after the game for his pregame comments regarding the aircraft issues with Minnesota. His early remarks indicated that he was sick of hearing about it and that everyone experiences it since it affects every squad.

Given that their next game isn’t until Thursday, July 21, Washington will have a brief break. It will be Camp Day at Capital One Arena, and the game against the New York Liberty will start at 11:30 a.m. ET.