Washington, DC—-The Washington Mystics wrapped up their preseason with a 10-point loss to the Atlanta Dream, falling 80–70 at CareFirst Arena in Congress Heights. A lopsided opening quarter proved decisive, as Atlanta jumped out to a commanding 30–10 lead and never looked back.
Brittney Griner led the charge for Atlanta with a double-double performance, tallying 16 points and 10 boards. Rhyne Howard chipped in 14 points, knocking down four shots from beyond the arc, while Nia Coffey came off the bench to contribute another 14 points in the win.
Washington’s offense struggled to find rhythm early, plagued by turnovers and cold shooting from three-point range. The Mystics connected on just 3-of-19 attempts from deep. Brittney Sykes paced Washington with 13 points, and rookie Kiki Iriafen added 12 points and six boards in an encouraging performance.
Despite a more competitive second quarter, the Mystics were unable to erase the early deficit. Atlanta’s defense played a key role, forcing 18 turnovers and converting them into 15 points. The Dream also held a 38–31 edge in bench scoring and shut Washington out in fast-break points, 11–0.
However, Atlanta didn’t escape the contest unscathed. Guard Jordin Canada exited the game in the first quarter with an apparent knee injury and did not return.
The game also featured a reunion of sorts, as former Mystic Shatori Walker-Kimbrough made her return to CareFirst Arena in a Dream uniform. For Washington, the focus now shifts to improving ball security and perimeter shooting before the start of the regular season.
With preseason in the books, the Mystics will open their 2025 campaign on Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. ET, hosting the Dream once again at CareFirst Arena.
