WNBA 2017: Mystics (6-3) humbled by Lynx (8-0), 98-73

Verizon Center, Washington, D.C., June 9, 2017 – This is the match-up that Washington Mystics fans looked forward to. Even with a five-game winning streak, questions on whether the Mystics are for real – and if they can compete with the WNBA’s elite like the undefeated Minnesota Lynx – could be addressed with greater certainty.

By the end of their 98-73 defeat to the Lynx, it was clear that the Mystics still have a way to go. Granted, their prized star Elena Delle Donne is nursing a left groin strain and their 2015 all-star forward, Emma Meesseman, is still under temporary suspension because of her commitment to overseas play. Nevertheless, one would have expected to see a competitive match.

Right off the bat, the Lynx attacked efficiently and defended effectively, making 13 of 23 field-goal attempts (FGA) with nine assists, resulting in nine more FGA than the Mystics. By the end of the first quarter, the Mystics already found themselves behind by 13 points, 33-20.

Things got worse by the middle of the fourth quarter when the Mystics were behind by 29 points. A few telling numbers provide a summary of the game: biggest lead: the Lynx by 29 points; lead changes: 0; times tied: 0. With stellar defense by creating seven more turnovers, the Lynx also had 13 more FGA, 76 to 63. But the most disappointing statistics were on the number of assists: the Lynx had 30 versus just 10 for the Mystics. In their previous eight games, the Mystics had averaged 18.4 assists per game.

Guard Tayler Hill was the high scorer for the Mystics with 20 points. The Lynx’ Sylvia Fowles had a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds.

Photos: Minnesota Lynx 98, Washington Mystics 73
all photos by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine