Once a season, the Washington Mystics and fans commemorate the Wear Orange campaign to raise awareness for Gun Violence Awareness Day, and the tradition continued on Tuesday, June 2. A sea of 4,200 fans in orange erupted in CareFirst Arena supporting an amazing cause and their Mystics pulling off a much-needed win at home. Laying waste to the veteran-stacked Chicago Sky, that are currently on a 4-game losing skid.
No Cintron, No Problem
After a tough loss at home against the Los Angeles Sparks, the young Washington Mystics found themselves still in search of their first home win of the season. The Mystics were missing their key playmaker Sonia Cintron (foot injury), who is averaging 17.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists this season. Starting in her place was the agile and crafty rookie out of Ole Miss (University of Mississippi), Cotie McMahon, who helped the team secure a W with her extended minutes on the floor, putting up 8 points and 5 rebounds in 25 minutes.
This was an all-hands-on-deck situation and the call was answered by Cassandre Prosper and Alicia Flórez. Both were magnificent on defense holding starting Sky guards, Natasha Cloud and Skylar Diggins to 14 points and 4 assists combined. This allowed the Mystics to take a commanding 16-point lead by the half.
Battle of the Bigs
Kamilla Cardoso entered this matchup as one of the most dominant centers in the league, but every powerhouse eventually meets a worthy challenger. Watching Cardoso go head-to-head with Shakira Austin and Kiki Iriafen felt like a clash of giants in the paint. Cardoso still managed to post an impressive double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, but Washington’s frontcourt proved too much to overcome. Austin led the way with 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Iriafen added a strong double-double in her own defense with 15 points and 11 rebounds, helping control the battle inside. Much needed momentum that gave the Washington Mystics their first home win; 90 – 72 over the Chicago Sky.
Is This Wrestling or Basketball?
Tempers flared several times throughout the game as missed calls continued to frustrate both sides and escalated to near-ejections. However, as the game went on, the level of physicality only intensified. We understand that the WNBA is becoming more physical. That’s a natural part of any sport’s growth as athletes evolve and the demands placed on their bodies continue to increase. Longer seasons, shorter recovery periods, and more travel all contribute to a tougher, more demanding environment.
However, these factors should never change how players are protected. Physical basketball can be entertaining and competitive, but the standard for what is and isn’t a foul must remain consistent across the board. Player safety and fair officiating cannot be sacrificed in the name of letting the game become more of a blood sport spectacle.
The Washington Mystics travel south to battle Allisha Gray and the Atlanta Dream, Saturday, June 6.
Publishing articles on film, television, and pop culture articles inclusive entertainment
