CHICAGO, IL — Brittney Sykes delivered a clutch performance Tuesday night, pouring in 32 points to lead the Washington Mystics past the Chicago Sky, 79-72, after erasing a 12-point halftime deficit.
Down 44-32 at the break, the Mystics came alive in the third quarter, outscoring Chicago 24-12 to even the score at 56 heading into the final frame.
Sykes was relentless down the stretch, converting a pivotal three-point play with just over two minutes remaining to give Washington a 74-70 lead. Then, with 37 seconds left and the Mystics clinging to a three-point edge, she snagged a crucial offensive rebound to reset the possession. Though her follow-up jumper missed, rookie Kiki Iriafen was there to clean it up, tipping in the putback to stretch the lead to five.
Washington’s defense stepped up in the final moments. Shakira Austin swatted Kamilla Cardoso’s shot attempt, and Sonia Citron secured the rebound before sinking two free throws to seal the win.
Citron was a force on both ends, finishing with 13 points and nine rebounds. The victory lifts the Mystics to 5-7 on the season.
Despite the loss, the Sky saw standout performances from their frontcourt duo. Kamilla Cardoso recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Angel Reese added 17 points, 10 boards, and five assists — both notching double-doubles. Ariel Atkins contributed 10 points for Washington.
With grit, hustle, and clutch plays in crunch time, the Mystics proved they’re never out of a game — especially with Brittney Sykes leading the charge.
