Mystics Set New Franchise Record Ahead Of Playoffs

Mystics guard Cotie McMahon looking to drive past a defender in Washington's 79-69 victory over the Connecticut Sun at CareFirst Arena on Tuesday Sept. 22. (Jonae Guest / WINsports)

The Washington Mystics made franchise history Tuesday night, while strengthening their position in the playoff race.

Washington defeated the Connecticut Sun 79-69 to earn its 27th win of the season. The victory set a new franchise record, surpassing the previous mark established by the 2019 championship team.

The Mystics came out strong, opening the night with a 23-16 lead in the first quarter. Connecticut answered with a strong push just before halftime, cutting the deficit to 44-42. But it was Washington who quickly regained control in the second half.

A 15-4 run in the third quarter turned a close game into a double-digit lead for Washington. Guard Cotie McMahon provided the ultimate surge connecting beyond the arc to extend the Mystics lead 66-53 with under three minutes left in the third quarter. The rookie guard finished the night with 13 points coming off the bench and Sonia Citron added in 12 points of her own to fuel the Mystics' effort.

Center Shakira Austin powered Washington throughout the night, recording 25 points and 13 rebounds. She went 7-for-14 from the field and even converted a career-best 11 free throws, consistently getting to the rim as the Mystics pulled away.

The performance marked Austin's 20th double-double of the season, while her 13 rebounds also increased her single-season franchise-record total to 397. Austin and forward Kiki Iriafen, who has recorded 22 double-doubles this season, have made WNBA history. They are the first teammates in league history to each record at least 20 double-doubles in the same season.

Now sitting at 27-16, the Mystics have secured the sixth seed in the playoffs and gained some breathing room in the standings. Washington holds a one-game edge over Dallas and New York, who are tied for the seventh seed. They have a strong opportunity of climbing as high as fifth in the playoff standings with a win over Chicago and an Indiana loss in the Fever's final game.

The Washington Mystics are set to close out the regular season Thursday night against the Chicago Sky at CareFirst Arena. Tip-off is set 7:30pm and the game will air on Monumental Sports Network.