The Washington Mystics host the Connecticut Sun on Tuesday night in a battle between two Eastern Conference teams fighting to gain traction late in the season. Washington enters as a 5.5-point home favorite, looking to take advantage of their floor and a Sun squad that has struggled to close games on the road. The Sun bring toughness and physicality, especially in the frontcourt, but the Mystics’ guard play and balanced attack give them the betting edge. With both teams still jockeying for playoff positioning, this matchup should be physical and tightly contested.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Point Guard – Tyasha Harris sets the tone for the Sun, bringing steady decision-making and a pass-first approach. Natasha Cloud runs the Mystics’ offense, offering leadership, defense, and the ability to control tempo.
Shooting Guard – DiJonai Carrington is a key scorer for Connecticut, using her quick first step and transition ability to generate offense. Ariel Atkins counters for Washington with perimeter shooting and two-way impact.
Small Forward – DeWanna Bonner provides veteran scoring and length for the Sun, while Brittney Sykes delivers defense and slashing ability for the Mystics. Both players bring energy on both ends of the floor, making this a key matchup.
Power Forward – Brionna Jones brings physical post scoring for Connecticut, while Myisha Hines-Allen provides the Mystics with grit, rebounding, and the ability to stretch defenses from midrange.
Center – Alyssa Thomas is the heartbeat of the Sun, serving as a point forward who can facilitate, rebound, and defend multiple positions. Shakira Austin anchors Washington’s paint presence with shot-blocking and rebounding, setting the tone defensively.
Game Outlook
This matchup will likely be decided by rebounding and turnovers. Connecticut thrives when Thomas and Jones can dominate inside, but Washington has enough size and depth to keep the battle even on the glass. The Mystics’ edge comes from their guard play, with Cloud and Atkins capable of dictating pace and creating perimeter scoring opportunities. If Washington can limit Bonner’s impact and prevent Thomas from creating easy looks, they should be able to control the game in the second half.
Best Bets
- Washington Mystics -5.5 – Washington’s depth and home-court advantage tilt this one in their favor.
- Under 158.5 Total Points – Both defenses are among the league’s more disciplined, which could keep scoring lower than expected.
- Alyssa Thomas Over Assists – Thomas is the Sun’s primary facilitator and will have the ball in her hands often.
Final Score Prediction
Washington Mystics 78 – Connecticut Sun 71
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