The Washington Mystics went into Saturday’s game against the Chicago Sky with a target on their back as the only undefeated team left in the WNBA. That accomplishment came to an end when the Sky held on in the last seconds of the 4th quarter to lock down a close 88-86 victory over the Mystics.
After an impressive showing in their first three games, the challenges of a shorthanded roster may finally be on display. The Mystics did not control the pace of the game from the beginning and they seemed to lack the energy that we’re used to seeing from the team. Overall, the matchup was plagued by mistakes and costly turnovers that led to 20 points for the Sky.
Coach Thibault: “You saw the good and the bad from our team tonight. We’re tired. Depth is an issue. Playing shorthanded is tough.” #Mystics #ApplyPressure pic.twitter.com/UzAQ1gUnxx
— Carita Parks (@CaritaCParks) August 2, 2020
Without the depth that carried them to the WNBA Championship, the Mystics are struggling with fatigue (four games in eight days) and players like Aerial Powers, Myisha Hines-Allen, and Aerial Atkins are relied upon for extended minutes.
Washington’s bench didn’t provide much relief either. The bench only added eight points to the Mystics 42% shooting average. Their shooting struggles were amplified from the lack of aggression from last year’s Finals MVP Emma Meesseman. In a short but sweet summary of Meesseman’s performance, Coach Thibault simply said he wants her to shoot more.
Coach Thibault on Emma Meesseman: “We’re wishing she would shoot a little more.” That was the extent of the feedback… #Mystics
— Carita Parks (@CaritaCParks) August 2, 2020
At the end of the fourth quarter, Washington had an opportunity to tie the game and go into overtime. However the same issues that were a problem throughout the game came up in the end as well and the Mystics couldn’t close it out.
“Tonight, honestly, we beat ourselves. I don’t think Chicago beat us,” Aerial Powers said after the game. “We didn’t start off with the energy we usually do and we weren’t there for 40 minutes and that’s on us.”
Myisha Hines Allen also added that they just didn’t play Mystics basketball.
Myisha Hines-Allen: “We just didn’t play #Mystics basketball today.” pic.twitter.com/VuN1Z8nqQG
— Carita Parks (@CaritaCParks) August 2, 2020
Washington will have a three-day break before they face the Las Vegas Aces on Wednesday. Hopefully the time off on Sunday will allow the team to get some rest and bounce back with a vengeance.