Mystics 26-8 (2-1) vs Connecticut Sun 21-13 (1-2)
When: Tuesday, October 8th, at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT
TV: ESPN 2
Injury
Mystics: Kiara Leslie – (Out, Torn Meniscus in right knee), Elena Delle Donne (Probable, Small Disc Herniation), Ariel Atkins (Probable, Back Spasms)
Sun: N/A
Notes – Washington is one win away from capturing their first championship in franchise history
Game Four – Washington Mystics at Connecticut Sun, Tuesday, October 8, 8:00 p.m. ESPN 2
*Game Five – Connecticut Sun at Washington Mystics, Thursday, October 10, 8:00 p.m. ESPN 2
* - if necessary
Mystics –
(Regular Season/ Playoffs)
89.3/ 92.1- points per game
77.3/ 90.6 - points against
46.9/ 47.6 - Field goal %
Sun –
(Regular Season/ Playoffs)
80.8/ 87.0- points per game
77.9/ 79.2 - points against
42.3/ 46.3- field goal %
Keep an eye on:
First Quarter: So far in this finals series, the team who has won the first quarter has won each game. In game one, Washington jumped out to a 30-17 first quarter lead which led to a 95-86 win. Game two saw the Sun start strong with a 29-17 lead after one, ending in a 99-87 win for Connecticut, and in game three the Mystics, highly motivated, shot lights out, taking a 32-17 first period lead, yet resulting in another win for Washington. Starting strong is ideal for any team, yet, in this series it’s of upmost importance especially for Washington who will be fighting against a desperate team on the road. Look for Washington to bring the same aggression that they started game three with on BOTH ends of the floor in hopes of delivering the knockout blow early.
Rebounding: has been the true difference in this series. The team who has won the battle on the boards has walked off the floor victorious. Washington outrebounded Connecticut 28-27 in game one, 34-27 in game three, both wins. Their lone loss was in game two when the Sun, led by Jonquel Jones 18 rebounds (9 offensive), dominated the boards 41-27. Controlling the boards is crucial, especially on the road in a closeout game. Both teams are highly efficient scoring, and if you add in extra possessions from offensive rebounds or limiting possessions with stops and defensive rebounds, it’s clear that the team who owns the glass will more than likely win the game. If the Mystics want to capture their WNBA championship Tuesday night, rebounding is mandatory.
