WNBA Recaps, Aug. 28
Washington Mystics vs. New York Liberty:
Despite missing key players, the Liberty secured a dominant 89-63 win over the Mystics.
The Liberty, despite being without starters Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Natasha Cloud, delivered a strong performance over the Mystics. After missing seven games due to a concussion, Isabelle Harrison led the Liberty with 16 points off the bench, including two three-pointers. She also had five rebounds. Marine Johannes added 14 points and five assists, while Emma Meesseman had 15 points. The New York bench scored a combined 35 points, showcasing the team's depth and versatility.
Rookie Sonia Citron led Washington with 18 points, but the Mystics' offense struggled, making just one of their 17 3-point attempts. The Liberty's defense was stifling, holding the Mystics to just 26 points in the second half.
Seattle Storm vs. Minnesota Lynx:
The Storm overcame a 21-point deficit to hand the Lynx a 93-79 loss.
Skylar Diggins-Smith was instrumental in the comeback, scoring 19 of her 23 points in the second half. Nneka Ogwumike contributed 12 points and nine rebounds. As for the team, they recorded 34 points in the third quarter to begin the comeback.
Kayla McBride led the Lynx with 20 points while Napheesa Collier had 18. Courtney Williams logged 18 points and 10 assists, her third double-double of the season.
Chicago Sky vs. Phoenix Mercury:
The Mercury came away with an 83-79 victory over the Sky.
Kahleah Copper celebrated her 31st birthday with a stellar performance, scoring 28 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including four 3-pointers. Natasha Mack contributed with 10 points and 12 rebounds, her first career double-double. Alyssa Thomas had 15 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. She also became the first player in league history to record 300 assists in three consecutive seasons.
As for the Sky, Kia Nurse led them with 17 points off the bench. Angel Reese had 15 points and 20 rebounds, while Kamilla Cardoso had 15 points. Rachel Banham scored 13 points.
Cory Nelson is a contributor to The Lead. He attended Northern Virginia Community College. He can be reached at corymckenzienelson@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @CKenzyNelson, Instagram @ckenzynelson, and Threads @ckenzynelson