Washington Mystics pull away late to top Los Angeles Sparks 95-86
Sonia Citron hit five 3-pointers and finished with 24 points to lead Washington, while Kiki Iriafen added 18 points and 10 rebounds. Iriafen’s performance marked her 12th double-double this season and helped her set a franchise rookie record with six games of at least 15 points and 10 rebounds. Shakira Austin contributed 14 points and Jade Melbourne had 11 before fouling out late for the Mystics (16-18). Alysha Clark opened the scoring with a 3-pointer that put Washington ahead for good at 12-9.
Dearica Hamby led the Sparks (16-18) with 26 points and seven assists, and Kelsey Plum added 25 points and six assists. Rickea Jackson scored 17 and Rae Burrell 10 for Los Angeles. Washington shot 59.3% (35 of 59) from the floor and dished out 30 assists, both season highs, while hitting 11 3-pointers and holding Sparks to a 35-15 rebounding edge.
Citron’s production continued a standout rookie season, as she has now scored in double figures in 29 games, breaking the franchise record set by Chamique Holdsclaw in 1999 with 28 such games. Washington’s Jacy Sheldon did not play due to an ankle injury.
Upcoming: The Mystics host Connecticut on Tuesday, while the Sparks return home to face Dallas on Wednesday.
What this means: Washington is showing strong offensive balance and efficient shooting at a critical point in the season, with Citron and Iriafen anchoring the front line and a high assist total signaling good ball movement. The rookie records underscore the rapid impact Washington’s young players are making, and the team can build confidence heading into a tougher portion of the schedule.
Summary: Washington used a strong shooting night and a decisive late stretch to beat Los Angeles, with Citron and Iriafen highlighting a productive rookie season for the Mystics and sending LA to back-to-back losses. Positive momentum for Washington as it nears the end of the regular season.