The Washington Mystics secured an 84-79 victory over the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday night in Minneapolis, marking their third consecutive win. The Mystics improved their overall record to 8-7 and 6-4 in away games. The teams are scheduled to meet again on Wednesday.
Sonia Citron led Washington with 21 points, while Kiki Iriafen added 17, including a crucial go-ahead basket late in the game for the second consecutive contest. Citron also contributed four key free throws down the stretch that helped seal the victory. Rookie Lauren Betts provided defensive support with several steals and rebounds, helping to turn the game in the Mystics’ favor.
Washington overcame a halftime deficit by outscoring Minnesota 28-19 in the final quarter. The Lynx, led by second overall draft pick Loretta Miles, posted 22 points. Veteran Natasha Howard also added 20 points for Minnesota. Earlier in the closing minutes, Minnesota’s rookie Olivia Miles sparked a 7-0 run capped by a three-point play to build a 76-70 lead with about two and a half minutes remaining. However, Cotie McMahon responded promptly for Washington with a three-pointer to keep the Mystics in contention.
The closely contested matchup featured strong performances from both sides as Washington relied on timely scoring and defensive stands to rally from behind. Minnesota fought to hold a narrow lead late but ultimately could not withstand the Mystics’ late-game surge. The upcoming rematch between these teams will provide another opportunity to assess their evolving rivalry as the season progresses.
