Home WNBA Articles and Highlights Britney Sykes Leads The Mystics Pass The Dream 72-69

Britney Sykes Leads The Mystics Pass The Dream 72-69

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Photo Credit: Sidney Rouse

College, Ga. — Britney Sykes poured in 20 points, helping the Washington Mystics edge out the Atlanta Dream 72-69 on Friday night, securing a crucial win to move into a tie for the final playoff spot.

Brittney Sykes: “We knew how important this game was for our playoff hopes, and everyone stepped up when it mattered most.”

Washington (13-24) is now even with the Chicago Sky for the No. 8 seed, while Atlanta (12-25) falls a game behind with only three games remaining. The two teams are set for a rematch on Sunday in Washington.

Rhyne Howard pulled Atlanta within one point with a turnaround jumper with 21 seconds left. However, Ariel Atkins hit two free throws for Washington, and Tina Charles missed a potential game-tying three-pointer for the Dream as time expired.

Photo Credit: Sidney Rouse

Washington led 52-49 going into the final quarter. Jordin Canada gave Atlanta a brief 67-66 lead with two free throws at the 2:07 mark, but Atkins responded with two free throws of her own, and Stefanie Dolson followed up with a layup after a Dream shot-clock violation, extending the lead to three.

Sykes was efficient, making 7 of 13 shots, including a perfect 3-for-3 from three-point range. Stefanie Dolson added 13 points and eight rebounds, while Atkins contributed 10 points and four steals.

Allisha Gray had an impressive night for the Dream with 17 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Charles added 13 points, Rhyne Howard had 11, and Naz Hillmon finished with 10 points and 11 boards.