WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 22: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces loses the ball in front of Shakira Austin #0 of the Washington Mystics during the second half of the game at CareFirst Arena on July 22, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
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The Washington Mystics lose this one to the Aces, 83-76.
Washington got off to a slow start in this one. The offense really struggled to catch a rhythm. Aces were able to build 12-point lead early as a result. The Mystics struggled hitting shots, but turnovers were the story of the first half. The 11 turnovers committed by the team slowed the momentum of them climbing back into the game. The rest of the game it felt like the Mystics were trying to climb out of the hole they were in early on.
Shakira Austin had a big 3rd quarter on both ends that helped the Mystics build a run to give them a brief 2-point lead. Austin showed her prowess around the basket and contributed to some big stops, before briefly coming out of the game, after bumping her head on the floor.
This night, however, belonged to Jackie Young, who had a game-high 32 points (10 for 14 from the field). Young was able to score all over the court. Mystics struggled to cover her throughout the game. Every time the Mystics got close, it felt like Jackie Young started hit big shot after big shot. She was able to help keep the Mystics at bay.
Mystics drop their 2nd straight and 2nd straight to the Aces. They will hit the road again and head to Los Angeles to face the Sparks on Saturday.
Takeaways
Shakira Austin did an exceptional job guarding the league MVP, A’ja Wilson. She helped with holding Wilson to 15 points (5 for 14 from the field) on the night. Austin was very discipline with her defense of Wilson, even getting a big block on her in the 3rd quarter. Very rarely do you see A’ja be this quiet. Shakira also did it on the offensive end with 29 points. She got the best of the MVP on this night.
It was a quiet night for Kiki Iriafen as well. She stayed in foul trouble and was laboring with her left wrist, causing her to miss a couple of point blank layups. Should be interesting to see if she continues to play through it or if the team will opt to give her some rest to heal up this injury.