Mercury Storm Back to Shock Valkyries in Closing Minutes, 86–77

INDIANAPOLIS — July 22, 2025 — Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has officially been ruled out of Tuesday’s high-profile matchup against the New York Liberty, marking her 11th regular-season game missed due to injury this year. The update follows growing concerns about the guard’s ability to return to full form after a series of muscle-related setbacks that have derailed a promising sophomore campaign. A Season Marred by Injuries Clark’s absence on Tuesday will also include the Commissioner's Cup Final, bringing her total missed appearances to 12 games in 2025. This marks a sharp contrast to her previous durability, as she had remained injury-free throughout her college career and rookie WNBA season. In 2025, the right groin injury has become the latest in a string of issues, following earlier problems with her left groin and left quadriceps. Although Clark has remained productive when on the court—averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game—her shooting efficiency has dipped significantly. She is currently converting just 36.7% of her field goal attempts and 27.9% from beyond the arc. These numbers are well below her collegiate averages, where she consistently exceeded 46% from the floor and nearly 38% from three-point range. Medical Consultations and No Clear Timetable The Fever’s medical team is continuing evaluations this week, with Clark undergoing additional testing to better understand the extent of her groin injury. She traveled with the team to New York, but coaching staff have confirmed she will not suit up. There remains no definitive timeline for her return, and the Fever appear to be taking a day-by-day approach, pending further assessments. The nature of the injury, coupled with its recurrence, adds complexity to her recovery. Muscle-related injuries—particularly groin strains—can vary widely in severity and response to treatment. Clark is reportedly consulting with multiple medical professionals in hopes of gaining a clearer picture of what recovery will entail. Impact on the Fever’s Season Clark’s continued absence poses challenges for the Fever, who are currently 12-11 and hovering in playoff position. While they remain in the postseason picture, their chances of making a deeper playoff run significantly hinge on Clark’s availability and efficiency. Without their star guard on the floor, Indiana has struggled to generate consistent offensive rhythm and perimeter shooting. Her playmaking remains a critical component of the team’s identity. Even with diminished scoring efficiency, Clark’s ability to distribute the ball has been elite. Her 8.8 assists per game lead the team and rank among the league’s top passers. Replacing that output has proven difficult, particularly when facing teams with high-octane offenses like the Liberty. WNBA Schedule Draws Scrutiny The timing of Clark’s absence has reignited discussion about the WNBA’s compact schedule. The league resumed play on Tuesday night following a brief All-Star break, with 10 of the league’s 13 teams back in action. Several players and coaches have expressed concern over the lack of recovery time between marquee events and regular-season matchups. Teams such as New York are playing three games this week, while others face back-to-back sets with minimal rest. Many players participated in the All-Star festivities just days before returning to travel-heavy schedules and must manage performance expectations alongside their health. Clark’s All-Star Weekend Presence Despite her injury, Clark remained an active figure during All-Star weekend in Indianapolis. Though sidelined from both the 3-point contest and the main event, she stayed engaged courtside, acting in a quasi-coaching capacity alongside Liberty coach Sandy Brondello for Team Clark. Her absence on the court was noticeable, but her presence helped maintain fan interest and emphasized her leadership role even while injured. Off the court, her interactions—including lighthearted social media moments with fellow stars—underscored her influence within the league’s growing cultural footprint. Eyes on Future Lineup Possibilities Clark’s involvement during All-Star Weekend also hinted at potential future team dynamics. Her camaraderie with Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu, already well-documented, drew attention again as fans speculated about a possible future pairing in Indiana. With much of the league set for free agency in 2026, the seeds of future super-teams may already be forming behind the scenes. Though largely speculative, such conversations reflect Clark’s impact on league-wide narratives and her ability to shape not only Indiana’s future but potentially the future of other franchises as well. Looking Ahead As the Fever continue their season, their path forward will depend heavily on how quickly Clark can recover and how well the team adapts in her absence. Indiana is set to face a critical stretch of games that could determine whether they remain above the playoff line or slip into a more uncertain position. While fans and teammates await her return, the overarching priority remains ensuring her long-term health and avoiding further setbacks. For the league’s brightest star and one of its most marketable faces, the road back to full strength will be closely watched—not just in Indiana, but across the entire WNBA.

QUITMAN, GA — July 22, 2025 — Texas A&M's promising 2026 recruiting class has suffered a surprising setback as four-star wide receiver prospect George Lamons Jr. announced his decommitment from the program. Lamons, a standout from Brooks County High School in Georgia, had been committed to the Aggies since April but has now reopened his recruitment after visits to other Southeastern Conference programs reshaped his decision-making process. A Shifting Landscape in the SEC Lamons, a 6-foot-4, 218-pound playmaker, is considered one of the most dynamic athletes in the 2026 recruiting cycle. His decommitment comes at a time when Texas A&M had been enjoying strong momentum on the recruiting trail under head coach Mike Elko. Lamons’ decision is a clear reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in the competitive world of SEC recruiting. The young athlete cited a desire to slow down his recruiting process and explore other opportunities more thoroughly. Notably, two schools have surged to the forefront of his considerations: LSU and Georgia Tech. A recent visit to Baton Rouge, in particular, left a strong impression, as did sustained interest from Georgia Tech’s coaching staff. Wide Receiver, Not Tight End Although many recruiting sites have labeled Lamons as a tight end, he clarified that his preferred and most recruited position is wide receiver. Of the more than 25 offers he currently holds, the vast majority project him as a pass-catching weapon split out wide, rather than as a traditional in-line tight end. Only a small handful of schools have extended offers at the tight end position. Lamons’ size, route-running, and agility have positioned him as a hybrid threat—capable of creating mismatches against both linebackers and defensive backs. He has consistently lined up both inside and outside in his high school offense, making him a valuable target in a modern, spread-style system. Rising Star with All-American Pedigree In just his sophomore season during 2024, Lamons made a significant impact, earning national All-American recognition. He caught 62 passes for 1,340 yards and scored 20 touchdowns, playing a key role in guiding Brooks County to a 10-5 record and an appearance in the Georgia Class A Division II state championship game. His production and athletic profile have placed him firmly among the nation’s elite. According to the Rivals Industry Ranking, which aggregates evaluations from major recruiting outlets, Lamons is the No. 81 overall prospect in the country. He is also rated as the No. 5 tight end nationally and the No. 12 player in the state of Georgia, though he continues to market himself primarily as a receiver. LSU and Georgia Tech Emerge as Top Contenders As Lamons moves into the next phase of his recruitment, LSU and Georgia Tech appear to be leading the charge. His visit to LSU reportedly offered insight into how the Tigers envision his role within their offensive scheme, and those plans have sparked renewed interest from the four-star recruit. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech has maintained steady communication through recruiting coordinator Alex Mathis, who has helped establish a strong relationship between Lamons and the Yellow Jackets’ staff. Lamons’ decision to decommit does not eliminate Texas A&M from contention entirely, but the Aggies will now face stiffer competition in the pursuit of a player they had once considered a cornerstone of their 2026 class. Implications for Texas A&M and the 2026 Cycle For Texas A&M, the decommitment represents a challenge as they try to maintain their top-tier status in the 2026 recruiting race. Lamons was among the more high-profile pledges for the Aggies this cycle, and his exit from the class may prompt staff to re-evaluate their board at the wide receiver position or double down on efforts to win Lamons back. Still, with months to go before National Signing Day, there is ample time for both sides to revisit their options. For now, Lamons’ decision adds intrigue to the evolving recruiting landscape, particularly in the SEC, where top athletes are rarely ever truly off the market.

NEW YORK — July 22, 2025 — As the WNBA tips off the second half of its season, the defending champion New York Liberty are making headlines once again—this time with the acquisition of one of Europe’s most decorated stars. Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP and a dominant international force, has officially signed with the Liberty, positioning the franchise as a formidable favorite in the 2025 title race.  Meesseman’s addition bolsters a roster already packed with All-Star talent, including Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and the recently returned Jonquel Jones. With the league’s championship aspirations running through a competitive top tier, Meesseman’s presence could prove to be the difference-maker New York needs to reclaim its early-season dominance. A Proven Winner Joins a Stacked Roster Meesseman, 32, last played in the WNBA in 2022, but her global impact has only grown in the years since. She was named MVP of EuroBasket in 2024 and has led Fenerbahce to six EuroLeague championships. Her ability to adapt seamlessly between teams, leagues, and systems has made her one of the most sought-after free agents in recent memory. New York started the 2025 season in top form with a perfect 9-0 record but struggled midseason as injuries and roster absences began to take their toll. The Liberty fell to 15-6, losing five of their last seven games before the All-Star break. The absence of Jonquel Jones, who missed more than a month with an ankle injury, exposed vulnerabilities in New York’s interior defense and rebounding. Now with Jones healthy, Stewart continuing her MVP-caliber form, and Ionescu orchestrating the offense, Meesseman’s arrival injects a new level of versatility. Her basketball IQ, shooting range, and positional flexibility allow New York to deploy dynamic frontcourt combinations and maintain high-efficiency rotations regardless of lineup changes. Midseason Reinforcements Arrive In addition to Meesseman, New York also acquired forward Stephanie Talbot, who was waived by Golden State. Talbot adds further depth to a bench that will be crucial as the league intensifies its schedule over the next several weeks. The Liberty face a demanding stretch with three games this week, including a highly anticipated matchup against the Phoenix Mercury on Friday. New York’s depth was tested during the first half of the season. With players departing for international duty and others nursing injuries, the team leaned heavily on Stewart and Ionescu to maintain competitiveness. The return of Jones, coupled with the Meesseman signing, resets the expectations for what many consider the league’s most complete roster. Liberty Eye Redemption and Repeat The Liberty are determined to avenge last season’s WNBA Finals loss and prove that their slow stretch this year was merely a byproduct of limited availability. With Meesseman’s arrival, they now feature three former Finals MVPs—Stewart (2018, 2020), Jones (2024), and Meesseman (2019). No other team in the league can match that level of postseason experience. Her midseason integration presents challenges, especially with visa processing still pending, but Meesseman’s familiarity with several Liberty players and coaches will likely ease the transition. She has played under head coach Sandy Brondello and assistant Olaf Lange in overseas competitions and has shared rosters with many Liberty stars across global tournaments. League Implications and Playoff Dynamics The addition of Meesseman not only alters the Liberty’s trajectory but also shifts the overall playoff picture. New York currently sits second in the standings behind the league-leading Minnesota Lynx. The Mercury are also in close contention, trailing New York by just half a game. Both teams have shown flashes of championship potential, but Meesseman’s arrival raises the bar. For teams like Minnesota and Phoenix, this signing signals that New York is all-in on repeating as champions. While Minnesota remains the most consistent team this season, and Phoenix has added pieces of its own, the Liberty's latest move makes a strong statement about their postseason ambitions. Meesseman’s Legacy and Expectations Newer WNBA fans may not recall Meesseman's pivotal role in Washington’s 2019 championship run, where she averaged nearly 20 points per game off the bench. Her playstyle is defined by efficiency, vision, and adaptability. Even as a complementary piece, she remains a threat to take over a game. Her performances on the international stage have been equally remarkable. She led all scorers at the most recent Olympics, averaging 23.3 points per game while shooting 58% from the field. In EuroLeague play last season, she averaged 16.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game—earning MVP honors once again. Now returning to the WNBA, she brings a level of maturity and skill that elevates any team she joins. With the Liberty, she joins a franchise that is hungry for sustained dominance, not just a single title. Compressed Schedule Raises Player Concerns As the league resumes play just days after the All-Star break, several players have raised concerns about the compact schedule and its impact on player health. The Liberty are among several teams with three games this week, and players across the league have advocated for more rest time to ensure both performance quality and injury prevention. The quick turnaround is particularly difficult for teams like New York, who are reintegrating key players and adjusting rotations with new personnel. Still, the Liberty appear eager to make the most of their reinforcements, knowing that every game down the stretch will factor into seeding and playoff matchups. High Ratings Reflect Rising Popularity The All-Star Weekend drew record-setting viewership, with the All-Star Game averaging 2.2 million viewers—second only to last year’s record. The 3-point contest and skills challenge averaged 1.3 million viewers, further confirming the WNBA's continued growth in visibility and fan engagement. With superstars like Stewart, Clark, Wilson, and now Meesseman commanding headlines, the league enters the second half of the season with a level of momentum rarely seen in years past. Looking Ahead The Liberty’s next major test comes Friday when they host the Phoenix Mercury, another title contender with its own star duo. With Meesseman expected to join the lineup pending visa clearance, all eyes will be on how quickly she can impact games. As the playoff race heats up, the Liberty have positioned themselves not only as contenders but as a team capable of making history once again.

INDIANAPOLIS — July 19, 2025 — The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game delivered a fast-paced, high-scoring spectacle at Gainbridge Fieldhouse as Team Collier defeated Team Clark 151–131. The exhibition not only highlighted the league’s expanding talent pool but also shattered long-standing All-Star Game records on both individual and team levels. Leading the charge was Napheesa Collier, who earned All-Star Game MVP honors with a record-setting 36-point performance. Her impact on both ends of the floor, coupled with her leadership throughout the weekend, solidified her position among the league's elite. Team Collier controlled the game from the outset, never trailing and building on its lead with each passing quarter.  Collier Headlines a Historic Performance Collier’s efficiency and dominance were unmatched. She converted 13 of 16 field goal attempts, including four successful shots from the newly introduced 4-point zones. She also added nine rebounds and orchestrated the offense with composure and precision. Her scoring output marked the highest individual total in WNBA All-Star Game history, eclipsing previous benchmarks in a performance that reflected her versatility and command of the game. Skylar Diggins Makes All-Star History with Triple-Double Another standout on Team Collier was Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins, who became the first player in WNBA history to register a triple-double in an All-Star Game. She recorded 14 assists, 11 rebounds, and 11 points. Her court vision and pace dictated the team’s offensive tempo, with her 12th assist coinciding with Collier’s record-breaking basket. The synergy between Collier and Diggins proved pivotal, as they combined to lead one of the most explosive offensive showings ever seen in the All-Star format. Rule Changes Fuel Offensive Showcase The 2025 edition of the All-Star Game introduced a series of experimental rule changes aimed at enhancing pace and scoring. A 20-second shot clock replaced the standard 24 seconds, and teams were awarded maximum points in lieu of shooting free throws until the final two minutes of the fourth quarter. In addition, live substitutions were permitted once per possession, and a pair of 4-point shot zones were marked 28 feet from the basket. These modifications created a faster rhythm and opened the floor for perimeter scoring. Players responded enthusiastically, with both teams launching over 30 shots from the 4-point areas by the third quarter. The result was the highest-scoring All-Star Game in league history, with both teams combining for 282 total points. Team Clark Falls Short Without Its Captain Team Clark entered the game without its namesake, rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, who was ruled out due to a groin injury sustained earlier in the week. The absence of one of the league’s most prominent new stars shifted the dynamic, placing additional pressure on teammates to compensate. Kelsey Mitchell led Team Clark with 20 points on efficient shooting, while Kayla Thornton and Sabrina Ionescu also reached double figures. Despite spurts of scoring success, the team was unable to contain Team Collier’s fluid offensive execution or keep pace with their relentless tempo. Player Advocacy Prominent Throughout Weekend Beyond the action on the court, the All-Star Weekend emphasized the growing voice of WNBA athletes on league matters. Players wore unified messages during pregame warmups, drawing attention to ongoing collective bargaining discussions and broader efforts toward equity and fair compensation. The symbolic messaging was visible throughout the event and received substantial support from attendees and fans. Several players participated in off-court initiatives and media events aimed at raising awareness about player rights and the upcoming negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. The focus on advocacy added a deeper layer to the weekend’s festivities and reinforced the league’s growing role in athlete-led change. Legacy and New Generation on Full Display The night included tributes to past WNBA greats, including a pregame celebration of Indiana Fever legends. Tamika Catchings received a strong ovation from the Indianapolis crowd, while the event also featured a blend of rising talent and seasoned All-Stars. UConn alumni Paige Bueckers and Collier combined for multiple highlight-reel plays, symbolizing a bridge between generations of WNBA stars. Bueckers, making her All-Star debut, contributed early momentum for Team Collier by hitting the game’s first 4-point shot. The presence of familiar faces in the crowd, including notable NBA players and former WNBA champions, helped elevate the atmosphere of the event, providing a celebratory tone for both players and fans alike. Looking Ahead With the All-Star festivities concluded, players will now return to regular-season action. For Collier and the Minnesota Lynx, the focus shifts toward maintaining a top-tier position in the standings and building on a dominant midseason showing. For Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, attention turns to health and recovery, as the team continues to navigate its development amid rising expectations. The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game will be remembered for its groundbreaking performances, fast-paced entertainment, and the prominent display of player empowerment. It was a showcase that not only honored the best in women’s basketball but also reflected the league’s continuing evolution—on the court, in the locker room, and across the sports landscape.

The New York Liberty entered Wednesday night's game determined to close the first half of the season on a high note, and they did exactly that with a dominant 98-77 win over the Indiana Fever at Barclays Center. This matchup marked the final game for both teams before the highly anticipated 2025 WNBA All-Star weekend, hosted by Indiana. Liberty Controls Tempo from the Start From the opening tip-off, New York demonstrated superior energy and execution. The Liberty quickly established control, outscoring the Fever 32-24 in the first quarter behind a balanced offensive attack and aggressive rebounding. Forward Breanna Stewart set the tone early, scoring efficiently and contributing across the board with rebounds and assists. By halftime, the Liberty had extended their lead to 53-38, capitalizing on Indiana’s inconsistent shooting and turnovers. New York's defense forced the Fever into rushed possessions, while their own offense thrived on quick ball movement and perimeter accuracy. Indiana Misses Clark’s Spark The Fever played without rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, who was sidelined due to a groin injury sustained in a previous game. Her absence was evident as Indiana struggled to keep pace with the Liberty’s high-octane offense. Without their leading playmaker and scorer, the Fever leaned heavily on veterans like Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston. Mitchell, ever the sharpshooter, scored 16 points, including two three-pointers that elevated her to the top of the franchise’s all-time list in three-pointers made. Boston, who added six assists and a perfect 5-of-6 from the free-throw line, provided steady support but faced double-teams and physical defense that limited her overall impact. New York’s Depth Proves Too Much What separated New York from Indiana wasn’t just star power—it was depth. Eight Liberty players contributed at least six points. Sabrina Ionescu orchestrated the offense with poise, finishing with 15 points and nine assists. Meanwhile, Marine Johannes and Natasha Cloud delivered strong performances off the bench, combining for 26 points. Stewart led all scorers with 24 points, complemented by 11 rebounds and seven assists. Her efficiency on both ends of the court lifted New York’s performance, especially in a third quarter where they widened the gap to 74-57. A pivotal moment came with just under four minutes left in the third, when Stewart converted a three-point play that sent the Brooklyn crowd of 17,000-plus into a frenzy. Indiana’s Bright Spots Despite the loss, there were moments of resilience from the Fever. Sophie Cunningham, in her first start for Indiana, scored 12 points and grabbed four rebounds. Her aggressive drives and perimeter shooting offered much-needed spacing in the absence of Clark. Aliyah Boston reached a career milestone with her 300th assist, showcasing her growing versatility as a frontcourt facilitator. Additionally, Makayla Timpson’s energy off the bench stood out, contributing eight points and four rebounds in limited minutes. Indiana also had a 9-0 run early in the second half that briefly cut into New York’s lead, but they could never fully close the gap. Looking Ahead: All-Star Festivities and What’s Next The Fever will now shift their attention to All-Star Weekend, where Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis will host both the Skills Challenge and the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. While Caitlin Clark’s status remains day-to-day, her absence would be a noticeable loss for both the team and the event, as she was slated to captain one of the All-Star teams and compete in the three-point contest. On the other hand, Liberty center Jonquel Jones remains sidelined with an ankle injury but is expected to return when New York faces Indiana again on July 22. That matchup will be the first for both teams following the All-Star break and could have playoff implications as they jostle for seeding. Final Stats Snapshot Liberty Shooting : 57.8% from the field, 51.9% from three Fever Shooting : 36.8% from the field, 25% from three Rebounds : Liberty 29, Fever 32 Assists : Liberty 30, Fever 16 Top Performers : Breanna Stewart: 24 PTS, 11 REB, 7 AST Kelsey Mitchell: 16 PTS, 2 3PT Sabrina Ionescu: 15 PTS, 9 AST Sophie Cunningham: 12 PTS New York improves to 15-6, continuing their push for a top playoff seed. Indiana falls to 12-11 and will regroup at home, focusing on recovery and recalibration for the second half of the season.

CHICAGO — The Atlanta Dream put together one of their most complete performances of the season Wednesday, overwhelming a depleted Chicago Sky squad 86–49 at Wintrust Arena. The victory propelled Atlanta to a 13–9 record heading into the All-Star break, while Chicago fell to 7–15 and limped off the floor still searching for answers without their All-Star forward.  The Sky were forced to play without Angel Reese, who was sidelined by a leg injury for the first time this season. Without their top scorer and rebounder, Chicago struggled to generate any offensive rhythm. The absence was evident as the team recorded fewer than 13 points in any single quarter and shot just 25% from the field. A Third-Quarter Avalanche Atlanta wasted no time taking control but truly broke the game open after halftime. The Dream started the third quarter on a blistering 14–0 run that showcased their depth and ball movement. By the time Chicago finally hit its second field goal of the half, Atlanta had already built a 62–26 advantage. The Dream piled up 13 field goals in the period alone, exceeding Chicago’s total output for the entire first three quarters. That burst all but sealed the outcome, allowing Atlanta to rest starters down the stretch while the Sky tried to avoid setting an unfortunate franchise scoring record. Contributions Across the Roster Brittney Griner anchored the Dream offense with 15 points, working efficiently around the basket and drawing extra defenders whenever she touched the ball. Brionna Jones and Allisha Gray each added 14 points, combining for smart cuts and timely jumpers that repeatedly punished Chicago’s rotating defense. Te-Hina Paopao, the promising rookie guard, provided a spark off the bench with 13 points, knocking down multiple three-pointers to extend the margin. Naz Hillmon chipped in 10 points as Atlanta’s bench continued to supply steady production. Point guard Jordin Canada directed the offense with precision, handing out eight assists and pushing the pace whenever Chicago missed shots—which happened often on an afternoon when little went right for the home team. Sky’s Offensive Struggles Continue Chicago’s shooting woes were apparent from the start. Without Reese’s presence to create opportunities in the paint and command defensive attention, the Sky could not find reliable scoring options. Rebecca Allen was the lone bright spot, scoring nine points—all coming on three-pointers during the third quarter in a brief flurry that momentarily trimmed the deficit. Kamilla Cardoso contributed eight points and 11 rebounds, working hard to secure extra possessions, but her efforts were not nearly enough to change the complexion of the game. Moriah Jefferson’s late jumper with just over 30 seconds remaining helped Chicago avoid its lowest scoring performance in franchise history—a small consolation in an otherwise dispiriting defeat. A Needed Break for Both Teams For Atlanta, the blowout win marked an encouraging rebound after injuries had disrupted their rotation in recent weeks. Forward Rhyne Howard remained out with a knee injury that is expected to sideline her for the rest of July, but the Dream’s depth proved more than sufficient to compensate. The frontcourt combination of Griner and Jones imposed their will on both ends of the floor, while Gray and Paopao supplied perimeter scoring that kept the Sky on their heels. On the Chicago side, the absence of Reese underscored her impact beyond the box score. As the team’s leading scorer, top rebounder, and emotional leader, her availability has been critical to Chicago’s competitiveness. Though she was held out as a precaution to prepare for the upcoming All-Star festivities, the game demonstrated how much the Sky rely on her energy and production. Looking Ahead The Dream will head into the All-Star break sitting comfortably in the upper half of the standings, carrying positive momentum and improved chemistry. With Howard on track to return in the coming weeks and Griner rounding into form, Atlanta is positioned to make a strong playoff push over the second half of the season. Meanwhile, the Sky will regroup during the break and hope Reese’s leg injury proves minor enough for her to return immediately afterward. Chicago’s schedule does not get easier, and the team must quickly find ways to boost scoring and cut down on turnovers if it hopes to stay in the postseason race. As both teams take a short respite, the message was clear in Wednesday’s matinee: when Atlanta is firing on all cylinders—even with key players missing—they can overwhelm almost anyone. And when Chicago loses its star centerpiece, the road gets considerably steeper.

SEATTLE — The Washington Mystics overcame an early deficit and capped the night with a dominant final quarter to secure a 74–69 win over the Seattle Storm on Sunday at Climate Pledge Arena. The result brought Washington back above .500 and underscored the team’s resilience in what has been a season full of swings.  Brittney Sykes led the Mystics with 19 points, scoring 10 in the fourth quarter alone as Washington stormed back from a double-digit deficit. With her late-game poise and determined drives to the rim, Sykes transformed a night that had been tilting toward the Storm into a statement victory for her team. Seattle Controls the Early Tempo The Storm took command in the first half with balanced offense and intense defensive pressure. Ezi Magbegor set the tone immediately, hitting midrange jumpers and establishing herself in the paint. She finished with a season-high 19 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks. Alongside her, Nneka Ogwumike showcased her veteran skill set, mixing post moves with outside shooting. Ogwumike contributed 16 points and six rebounds, providing stability whenever the Mystics threatened to rally. After the first quarter, Seattle led by five, and when Tiffany Mitchell came off the bench to sink back-to-back baskets in the second, the lead swelled further. Washington struggled to find clean looks, with Seattle closing out hard on perimeter shooters and limiting second-chance opportunities. A Brief Mystics Push Before Halftime Though the Storm held the momentum, the Mystics managed to stay within striking distance thanks to Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen. Citron, whose poise continues to impress in her first professional season, tallied 17 points and knocked down a key jumper to slow Seattle’s run. Iriafen, meanwhile, worked tirelessly on the glass. Her putback layup late in the second quarter trimmed the deficit, and her defensive energy helped the Mystics avoid letting the game slip away completely. Washington trailed by just three at halftime, despite shooting under 40% and committing seven turnovers. Seattle Builds a Cushion in the Third After the break, the Storm regrouped and produced their most fluid offensive stretch of the evening. They connected on 10 of 19 field goal attempts in the third quarter, igniting the crowd with an 11–0 run that stretched the lead to double digits. Skylar Diggins added a highlight-reel play when she sprinted back to swat away a layup in transition. Diggins finished with 10 points, four assists, and three steals, playing with the assertiveness that has defined her return to the WNBA this season. When Magbegor buried a baseline jumper near the end of the period, Seattle appeared in control, up eight points with just 10 minutes to play. Mystics Flip the Script in the Fourth But the Mystics weren’t finished. They opened the fourth quarter with a renewed sense of urgency, pushing the ball in transition and applying full-court defensive pressure. Sykes scored or assisted on Washington’s first 12 points of the final frame. Her three-point play off a driving layup brought the Mystics within a single possession, and Citron followed with a smooth catch-and-shoot three-pointer that gave Washington its first lead since the opening minutes. Iriafen continued to do the dirty work inside, pulling down critical rebounds to limit Seattle’s second chances. Her 10-point, 10-rebound effort tied the franchise’s rookie record for double-doubles in a season, further highlighting her impact. Clutch Moments Seal the Win As the clock wound down, Ogwumike responded with a layup to cut Washington’s lead to one. The Mystics turned to Sykes again, and she delivered, attacking the paint and sinking a contested layup to restore a three-point cushion. On the ensuing possession, Diggins stepped out of bounds while trying to free herself for a pass—a costly turnover that set the table for Washington to put the game away. Sykes iced the win at the free-throw line, calmly converting two attempts with less than 10 seconds left to finalize the score. Bench Contributions and Defensive Adjustments While Sykes and Citron carried the scoring load, Washington’s depth played a pivotal role. Julie Vanloo contributed six assists and steady ball handling in her minutes, while Myisha Hines-Allen chipped in seven points and provided veteran leadership. Defensively, the Mystics locked down in the final quarter, holding Seattle to just 14 points. Washington outshot the Storm 44% to 36% and forced 16 turnovers—a difference that proved decisive. Injury Watch and What’s Next Seattle’s Gabby Williams exited the game in the final minute with a leg injury after an awkward landing. The Storm will monitor her status closely, as her defensive presence has been crucial in their strong start to the year. With the loss, Seattle slipped to 13–9, still holding a top-three seed in the Western Conference. They’ll host the Golden State Valkyries next, looking to bounce back before the All-Star break. Washington improved to 11–10 and will continue their road trip in Los Angeles, where they’ll face the Sparks on July 15. With Sykes and Iriafen both surging, the Mystics look poised to keep climbing the standings as the season enters its second half.