Mystics Rally with 12‑0 Run to Top Lynx 84‑71

The Washington Mystics found themselves nine points down with just over five minutes left on the clock, and most fans were bracing for another close finish. Instead, what followed was a burst of energy that felt almost cinematic.

Starting with a clean steal by Kristi Toliver, the Mystics ignited a 12‑0 run that left the Minnesota Lynx scrambling. Within seconds, Alanna Smith sank a mid‑range jumper, and then Ariel Atkins knocked down a three‑pointer that seemed to shift the momentum entirely.

By the time the buzzer sounded for the final quarter, the scoreboard read 84‑71 in Washington’s favor. It wasn’t just the points that mattered; the confidence radiating from the bench was palpable. Coach Mike Thibault could barely contain his smile as he watched his players execute the plays they’d practiced all season.

Key contributors included Elena Delle Donne, who finished with 22 points and 8 rebounds, and McKenna Starkey, whose defensive hustle forced two critical turnovers during the surge. The Lynx, for their part, fought valiantly. Natalie Achonwa posted a double‑double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, but the late run proved too much to overcome.

Post‑game, Delle Donne reflected on the team’s resilience. “We never gave up. When you believe in each other, you can turn any situation around,” she said, laughter echoing in the locker room. Meanwhile, Lynx guard Aaliyah Edwards promised her squad would learn from the loss. “We’ll take this pain and turn it into motivation for the next game,” she affirmed.

Fans leaving the arena were buzzing about the dramatic finish. Some even joked that they’d need a replay to believe what they’d just witnessed. In the end, the Mystics walked away with three crucial points in the Western Conference race, while the Lynx left with a lesson on protecting leads.