Mystics vs. Sun final score: Washington holds on for 78-76 win at home

The Washington Mystics improved to 4-2 on the season thanks to a 78-76 win in a compelling, physical game on Wednesday.

The Good News

That was a hay ride! The Sun jetted out to a 10-0 run in the first minutes of the game. Despite playing poorly for most of the first half, the Mystics reined them in.

Elena Delle Donne started slow, but really asserted herself on the defensive end in the second half. Her 13 points, 12 boards, 4 assists and 5 blocked shots made the difference in this hotly contested game.

Ivory Latta had good game, contributing 7 points, 2 assists and a steal in 17 minutes.

Tayler Hill made 7 of 8 free throws today, and walked away with 18 points on 33 percent shooting.

Tianna Hawkins had to have a big game against Jonquel Jones, and she did. Jones managed 14 points and 13 rebounds, but she never took over the game.

Krystal Thomas also played a big part in slowing Jones down, frustrating her when she got the ball in the paint. 11 points and 9 rebounds should put her on the ‘legit meter’.

The Bad News

Tierra Ruffin-Pratt has to shoot better. She was 4 of 13. Her defense is usually solid, but for a starter we need more. I am sure I have said that 36 times, going back through last year.

Natasha Cloud seems to be on the cusp of really breaking through. It just was not this game. Again.

The Neutral News

Ugly win.

The Mystics have to win games like this. The ones that look doable on paper. Because the schedule picks up intensity in July, and they are in the middle of the pack with Atlanta, Dallas, L.A., and Phoenix.

Of course, the Lynx are leading the association right now with an unblemished record, and frankly I would like to see the Mystics be the first to tarnish it on June 9. Washington plays them twice in the next 8 games.

This kind of defensive effort will be necessary, for sure, in order to do it.

...

We know you Minny.