Sonia Citron scored 19 points and dished out nine assists as the Washington Mystics used a strong perimeter attack and dominant first half to defeat the Phoenix Mercury 94-84 Wednesday morning.
Washington took control before halftime, building a 51-33 advantage behind its outside shooting and work on the glass. The Mystics finished with nine made three-pointers compared with just three for Phoenix and held a nine-rebound advantage.
That combination helped Washington create separation early and maintain control after the break. The Mercury made a push in the second half, but the Mystics had already built enough of a cushion to keep Phoenix from taking control.
Citron was at the center of Washington’s offensive success. She finished with 19 points, nine assists and one rebound while shooting 5-for-10 from the field and connecting on three three-pointers. Her ability to score while creating opportunities for teammates helped keep the Mystics’ offense moving.
Shakira Austin gave Washington another strong option, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds and two assists. Her production provided balance alongside Citron and helped the Mystics capitalize on their advantage inside.
Washington’s perimeter shooting remained one of the clearest differences between the teams. The Mystics’ six additional three-pointers accounted for an 18-point advantage from beyond the arc, the same margin Washington carried into halftime.
Phoenix received strong individual performances from Natasha Mack and Kahleah Copper. Mack recorded 19 points and eight rebounds, while Copper added 19 points, five rebounds and two assists. Their production helped the Mercury fight back after halftime, but Phoenix could not fully overcome its slow start.
Washington ultimately turned its early advantage into a 10-point victory. The Mystics’ nine three-pointers, rebounding edge and 51-point first half gave Phoenix too much ground to make up.
The win improved Washington to 22-15 on the season, while Phoenix fell to 13-24.
