Mystics Pull Within a Game of Playoff Spot with Win Over Indiana

By the Editorial Team · Monday, September 21, 2026

The Washington Mystics defeated the Indiana Fever 93-77, cutting Indiana’s lead to just one game for the fifth-place spot in the WNBA standings. With two regular-season games left, Washington’s win boosts their push for a playoff berth while Indiana prepares for crucial matchups against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx.

INDIANAPOLIS — The Washington Mystics secured a 93-77 victory over the Indiana Fever on Sunday, narrowing the gap to just one game behind Indiana for the fifth-place spot in the WNBA standings. The win positions Washington (26-16) as one of three teams trailing the Fever (27-15) with only two regular-season games remaining.

Center Kiki Iriafen led the Mystics with a double-double, contributing 21 points and 14 rebounds. Forward Shakira Austin added 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals, playing a key role in maintaining Washington’s dominance throughout the game. Guard Sonia Citron scored 16 points and nearly recorded a double-double with nine assists, while Georgia Amoore chipped in 11 points, including three three-pointers.

Washington established early control, opening with a 34-19 lead after the first quarter. The Mystics expanded their advantage to as many as 26 points before intermission, holding a 51-30 lead at halftime. Entering the fourth quarter ahead 77-61, Washington maintained their margin and closed out the game comfortably without facing significant pressure from the Fever.

Indiana was led by guard Caitlin Clark, who scored 25 points and handed out five assists. Kelsey Mitchell contributed 22 points, but the team’s backcourt combined for a 14-for-40 shooting effort, including just 6-of-20 from three-point range. Makayla Timpson added 13 points, seven rebounds and three steals for the Fever.

The win marked Washington’s fifth victory in six games and extended their record to 14-4 since late July. Indiana, meanwhile, faces a final home-and-home series against the Minnesota Lynx, who currently hold the league’s best record at 32-10. With these games remaining, Indiana has a chance to solidify their playoff position.

The Mystics will conclude the regular season at home, hosting the Connecticut Sun on Tuesday and the Chicago Sky on Thursday. Both contests will take place at the Monumental Sports Network and be broadcast on WTEM (980 AM). The results will be critical as Washington aims to secure a playoff berth in the closing days of the season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.