TICS TOP THE LEAGUE’S BEST AGAIN, ACES FALL.

Washington defeated Las Vegas 100-99 in a game decided in the final minutes.

The Mystics shot 49.3% from the field and 53.8% from three point range, out rebounded Las Vegas 34 to 24. Washington trailed after being outscored 33 to 25 in the third quarter but closed the game on a 29 to 21 fourth to seal the win. With 13 seconds remaining, Shakira Austin grabbed the offensive rebound off a missed layup attempt from Sonia Citron and converted the putback layup, drawing a foul on the play. The and 1 free throw gave Washington a one point lead that held up as the final margin.

At the center of the game was a head to head battle in the frontcourt between center Shakira Austin and power forward A’ja Wilson. Austin finished with 25 points on 10 of 18 shooting, and adding 6 rebounds, while Wilson countered with 38 points on 12 of 16 shooting, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks. Wilson had the more dominant scoring night, but Austin’s rebounding and interior defense, including the game sealing sequence, played a key role down the stretch.

Sonia Citron added 20 points and a team high 8 assists, directing Washington’s offense and helping the team generate 24 total team assists.

Las Vegas shot 54.8% as a team and recorded 10 steals and 6 blocks defensively but was unable to overcome Washington’s rebounding advantage and fourth quarter push.

Final score: Mystics 100, Aces 99