The Washington Mystics kicked off their season with back-to-back statement wins, and it didn’t take long for fans to start believing in this young, fearless squad. Led by two rookie All-Stars Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron and the leadership presence of Britney Sykes, the Mystics have defied expectations by winning 8 out of their 18 games this season. Next up? A game against the Chicago Sky, who are struggling to meet expectations.
The Sky will come into the game having won 2 of their last 5, while the Mystics have won 3 of their last 5 games but are currently on a 2-game losing streak. With Angel Reese playing the best basketball of her young career, she might just be the X-factor heading into this clash!
Chicago Sky vs Washington Mystics: Where to watch?
You can watch these two teams clash on Tuesday, July 8, 20255, at the EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, Virginia. The tip-off is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. ET. For those unable to attend the game, don’t worry, we have got you covered on that front as well! The game will be broadcast on the U and MNMT. It can also be viewed by taking the WNBA pass.
Chicago Sky vs Washington Mystics: Injury report
Heading into the game, the Washington Mystics have no new injury concerns. According to ESPN, rookie guard Georgia Amoore remains out for the season after suffering an ACL tear in the preseason. Meanwhile, Sug Sutton, who hasn’t played since June 28 due to a lower leg injury, is now listed as a game-time decision.
The same goes for the Chicago Sky, with no new injury updates. Veteran guard Courtney Vandersloot is out for the remainder of the season with an ACL injury, which has been a big loss for the Sky backcourt. Kamilla Cardoso remains unavailable as she continues to represent Brazil at the FIBA AmeriCup.
Projected starting lineup
Washington Mystics
Shakira Austin
Kiki Iriafen
Brittney Sykes
Sonia Citron
Jade Melbourne
Chicago Sky
Michaela Onyenwere
Angel Reese
Elizabeth Williams
Rachel Banham
Ariel Atkins
Prediction: Can Angel Reese and Co. get their 6th win of the season?
It goes without saying that heading into the game, the Washington Mystics will be the favorites with a home-court advantage and a slightly better record. On top of that, remember what happened the last time these two teams faced each other? The Mystics overcame a 12-point deficit to pull off a comeback win!
Naturally, ESPN gives the Mystics a 60.1% chance of winning the game. The numbers back them as well! The Mystics currently rank 11th in the league for scoring 78.9 points per game. On the other hand, they are ranked 8th in the league for conceding 80.7 per game. Not good numbers, but still better than the Chicago Sky!
The Sky are ranked 12th in the league for scoring 78.6 points per game. And there is no significant improvement on the defensive front either! The Windy City franchise is ranked 12th in the league for giving up 87.2 points per game. On paper, this has a Mystics win written all over it!
But games are never won on paper in the W. If there is one person who could change the tie for the Chicago Sky, it’s Angel Reese. The Bayou Barbie is in the form of her life, and has now recorded five straight games with 15+ rebounds and four consecutive outings with at least 15 points and 15 boards. Her performance will be key if the Sky want to walk away with a win.
That said, our prediction still leans toward the Mystics. The continued absence of Kamilla Cardoso is a huge setback for Chicago, and it could once again tilt the balance. Who do you think will win this encounter? Will the Sky get to their 6th win of the season, or will the Mystics get their 9th win? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
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