The Washington Mystics had a tough start to the 2024 season, going over a month without a win and even longer before winning their first home game. Coach Eric Thibault expressed relief after they defeated the Chicago Sky, noting the support of their fans who stuck with them.
The season has been challenging for fans, players, and coaches in Washington. The Mystics lost their first 12 games but managed to break that streak with a couple of wins. However, they still have a lot of ground to cover to reach playoff contention. This season has been a reality check for a team that underwent changes, especially with Elena Delle Donne stepping away from basketball.
Since winning the WNBA title in 2019, the Mystics have faced difficulties. Delle Donne, a key player and two-time league MVP, struggled with back issues and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in subsequent seasons.
Although she returned to play in 2022 and 2023, Washington couldn’t advance past the first playoff round.
Last season, the Mystics had five players scoring in double figures, including Delle Donne, Shakira Austin, Brittney Sykes, Natasha Cloud, and Ariel Atkins. Currently, Atkins is the only one still playing and healthy. Cloud joined Phoenix as a free agent, Austin has been limited by a hip injury, and Sykes has played only a few games due to a foot injury.
In the 2022 draft, Washington picked Austin third overall, their highest selection in over a decade. She showed promise as an All-Rookie performer but has been sidelined for much of her career so far.
Atkins has stepped up her scoring this season to 15.5 points per game, with strong performances in recent games. Reflecting on her play, she emphasized taking what the defense gives her, creating space, and finding a rhythm that fits the team’s strengths.
