WNBA Playoffs: Mystics and Wings Face Elimination on Home Court

Mystics Look to Cut Down on Mistakes

The Washington Mystics are back in the playoffs after missing out for two years, but they face elimination on Wednesday. After a tough 92-77 loss to the Atlanta Dream in Game 1, Washington must protect its home court to keep the season alive.

In the opener, the Mystics led by five points at halftime. However, a tough third quarter turned the game around as the Dream outscored them 29-12. Turnovers proved costly for Washington. They committed 22 turnovers compared to just seven for Atlanta, giving up 27 points off those mistakes.

"They're a very physical team," Mystics player Sonia Citron said. "We can't let them speed us up."

Wings Need Help for Paige Bueckers

The Dallas Wings are in a similar position after a 104-80 defeat against the Golden State Valkyries. Dallas struggled to match Golden State's franchise record scoring and 18 three pointers.

The bright spot for the Wings was Paige Bueckers. She made history in her playoff debut by scoring 21 points on 9 of 10 shooting. She became the first player in league history to shoot at least 90% from the field and score 20 or more points in her postseason debut.

However, Bueckers did not get enough help from the rest of the team. The Dallas bench was scoreless at halftime, and key players like Jessica Shepard finished without scoring. Wings coach Jose Fernandez noted that the score should not dictate their effort. Bueckers added that the team cannot let missed or made shots affect their defense.

What it means for the next game

Atlanta Dream at Washington Mystics (WNBA, Wed, 30 Sep): Washington Mystics win 36%, Atlanta Dream win 64%; projected score Washington Mystics 81, Atlanta Dream 85. Our safest pick: Dream +3.5.

Golden State Valkyries at Dallas Wings (WNBA, Thu, 01 Oct): Dallas Wings win 36%, Golden State Valkyries win 64%; projected score Dallas Wings 76, Golden State Valkyries 80. Our safest pick: Wings +11.5.