Connecticut Sun vs Washington Mystics
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Photos By: Nancy J. Dagata
Mystics Outlast Sun in Thriller, 90–85, Behind
Sykes and Star Rookies
Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT — May 18, 2025 | By: On Tour Magazine
The 2025 WNBA season tipped off in dramatic fashion Sunday night as the Washington Mystics stormed back from an early deficit to defeat the Connecticut Sun 90–85 on the road, fueled by a fourth-quarter explosion and a blend of veteran grit and rookie brilliance.
It was a matchup that had all the makings of a season opener classic — new head coaches on both sidelines, fresh rookie debuts, and playoff-caliber intensity from the opening tip.
Game Flow Recap
The Sun, playing in front of a fired-up home crowd, came out with purpose. Anchored by veteran center Tina Charles, Connecticut raced to a 23–13 first-quarter lead. Their physicality in the paint and aggressive transition game forced the Mystics to regroup quickly.
Washington answered in the second quarter with tactical adjustments by first-year head coach Sydney Johnson. Sophomore guard Brittney Sykes lit the fire, slicing through the defense, while rookies Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron settled in with poise far beyond their years. At halftime, the teams were knotted at 43–43.
In a back-and-forth third quarter, neither side could take control, but Washington's momentum began to simmer. The fourth quarter was where the game turned — the Mystics caught fire, outscoring Connecticut 30–20 in the final 10 minutes. A clutch three-pointer from veteran Stefanie Dolson with 5:38 left gave Washington its first lead, and they never looked back.
Standout Performers
Washington Mystics
- Brittney Sykes: 27 PTS, 7 AST, 2 STL — fearless leader and engine of the comeback.
- Kiki Iriafen (R): 17 PTS, 14 REB, 7-10 FG — dominant debut in the paint.
- Sonia Citron (R): 15 PTS, 3 AST, 2 STL — ice-cold finish, including a game-sealing and-one.
- Stefanie Dolson: 3 PTS, 1 3PT FG — her only field goal was a dagger in the clutch.
Connecticut Sun
- Tina Charles: 23 PTS, 10 REB — vintage double-double, battling every possession.
- Olivia Nelson-Ododa: 18 PTS, 8 REB — efficient and aggressive interior presence.
- Marina Mabrey: 11 PTS — shot well early but quiet down the stretch.
- Jacy Sheldon & Bria Hartley: Combined 22 PTS off smart spacing and hustle.
On Tour Takeaways
- The Kids Are Alright: Iriafen and Citron proved they’re more than just rookies — they’re instant contributors. Their maturity was evident, from high-efficiency shooting to high-IQ plays down the stretch.
- Clutch Factor: Brittney Sykes took over in the fourth quarter, showing why she’s Washington’s go-to scorer. Her control over pace and defensive tenacity set the tone.
- Sun Still Finding Rhythm: The Connecticut offense, while productive, often lacked cohesion when the pressure rose. New head coach Rachid Meziane will need time to solidify roles and rotations.
- Dolson’s Moment: One shot, one moment. Stefanie Dolson’s three wasn’t just a lead-changer — it was a gut punch that deflated a surging Sun squad.
What’s Next
- Washington Mystics (2–0): Travel west to face the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday, May 21 at 10:00 PM ET — a major test for the league's newest power duo in Iriafen and Citron.
- Connecticut Sun (0–1): Host the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday, May 20 at 7:00 PM ET — expect fireworks in a potential statement bounce-back game.
Box Score Breakdown
Stat Category Mystics Sun
FG% 51.6% (32/62) 43.9% (29/66)
3PT % 33.3% (5/15) 21.4% (3/14)
FT % 72.4% (21/29) 82.8% (24/29)
Rebounds (O/D) 32 (6/26) 33 (8/25)
Assists 17 17
Turnovers 14 12
Steals 7 4
Fast Break Points 23 4
Points in the Paint 46 44
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Coverage by On Tour Magazine — where performance meets passion.