WNBA Playoffs Round 1 - Single Elimination

Game Info

When: Tuesday, September 15 at 9 p.m. ET

Where: IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida

How to watch: ESPN2

Injury Report

Mystics: Natasha Cloud (Personal, Out); LaToya Sanders (Personal, Out); Tina Charles (Medical, Out); Elena Delle Donne (Back, Out); Aerial Powers (Hamstring, Out); Stella Johnson (Ankle, Out)

Mercury: Alanna Smith (Ankle, Questionable); Nia Coffey (Foot, Questionable); Bria Hartley (Knee, Out); Brittney Griner (Personal, Out); Yvonne Turner (Knee, Out); Jessica Breland (Medical, Out)

Pregame Notes

Washington Mystics have faced the Phoenix Mercury twice before in the regular both ending in losses for Washington. In their first meeting, the Mystics lost a close one, 88-87, where Diana Taurasi scored 34 points and Washington was without Emma Meesseman, while Phoenix didn’t have Brittney Griner.

In the second meeting after leading 41-33 in the first half, the Mystics disappeared in the second half being outscored 61-31 and ended up losing 94-72.

As happy as it is that the Mystics have made the playoffs despite a rocky season, it’s tough to decide if Washington can truly beat the Mercury especially since they haven’t. From the looks of it, the big issue is simply the Mystics themselves. This isn’t the time to have shooting slumps or disappear once having a good half.

This is a single elimination game meaning there is no tomorrow if they lose. You win...you move on. You lose...pack your bags and go home. The Mystics have to come out strong and aggressive and with lock down defense especially on Taurasi. Make Phoenix play their game and remind them why they’re still the defending champs.

Washington was doubted a lot this season given the circumstances of not having most of their returning team on top of being plagued with injuries, but it’s time to silence all of that and come with their all.