Mystics Nearly Erase 25-Point Deficit in Loss to Valkyries

In their first game back in D.C. since July 31, the Washington Mystics fell just short against the Golden State Valkyries, 88-83, at CareFirst Arena.

To start, Wednesday night marked Jacy Sheldon’s home debut following her August 7 trade to Washington. It also featured the return of Alysha Clark, reacquired on August 5 after spending the 2022 season with the Mystics.

Meanwhile, Shakira Austin (left leg soreness) was once again ruled out just before tip-off.

From the outset, the Mystics faced an uphill battle. Despite trailing by as many as 25 points, including deficits of 30-12 after one quarter and 46-28 at halftime, and enduring strong three-point shooting from Golden State (15-32), Washington refused to fold. Consequently, they outscored the Valkyries 55-42 in the second half, trimming the gap to just three points (86-83) in the final minutes. However, the Valkyries managed to hold on for the win.

Washington’s rally was fueled by a 31-18 fourth quarter, during which Sonia Citron poured in 13 of her 15 points, capped by a deep three that cut the deficit to four with 1:35 remaining. Emily Engstler, Kiki Iriafen, Lucy Olsen, and Sug Sutton all delivered clutch shots down the stretch, including Sutton’s triple in the final minute that made it a one-possession game. Nevertheless, after Iriafen’s driving layup attempt with 22.6 seconds remaining rolled off the rim, Golden State’s Tiffany Hayes ultimately sealed the win at the line with two free throws.

Overall, the Mystics had five players — Iriafen, Citron, Sutton, Jade Melbourne, and Engstler — finish in double figures, with Iriafen recording her 10th double-double of the season. On the other hand, the Valkyries saw Cecilia Zandalasini, Janelle Salaun, Tiffany Hayes, and Veronica Burton reach double figures, with Burton’s 30 points leading all scorers.

Washington will visit the Indiana Fever on Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with tip-off at 7:30 ET.