Minnesota's Lynx edge Washington's Mystics 80-76; Alanna Smith nets 25 points
In a thrilling WNBA clash on July 28, 2025, the Minnesota Lynx edged past the Washington Mystics 80-76, in a game that showcased some exceptional performances from both teams.
For the Lynx, Alanna Smith shone with a dominant display, scoring 25 points on 66% shooting, including four three-pointers. Smith also contributed four rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block in a commanding 36 minutes on the court.
Sonia Citron, on the other hand, delivered a stellar performance for the Mystics, scoring 26 points, including four three-pointers, with one rebound, four assists, and one steal in 28 minutes.
The game was tightly contested throughout, with both teams demonstrating their fighting spirit. With 59 seconds remaining, Citron sank a three-pointer for the Mystics to tie the game at 76, but the Lynx ultimately sealed the victory with two free throws from Kayla McBride.
The first half was marked by turnovers, with the Mystics committing 13 of them. The Lynx struggled from three-point range, going 2 of 13 in the opening period. However, DiJonai Carrington scored 12 points in her home debut for the Lynx, and McBride added 11 points to keep the Lynx in the game.
Kiki Iriafen and Shakira Austin each scored 12 points for the Mystics, while Courtney Williams had 14 points for the Lynx. Notably, a crucial moment in the game occurred when Sug Sutton was fouled, but the call was overturned following a review.
This closely fought matchup underscored the talent and competitiveness of both teams. Despite the loss, the Mystics can take solace in Citron's impressive performance, while the Lynx can be pleased with their home record, which stands at an impressive 16-1 this season.
- Napheesa Collier missed the game due to a right ankle injury for the Lynx.
- Bridget Carleton scored a jumper from the free throw line before halftime, giving the Lynx a 38-35 lead.
- Sonia Citron scored eight straight points for the Mystics.
[1] Washington Post, July 28, 2025 - "Mystics fall short against Lynx in close game" [2] ESPN, July 28, 2025 - "Smith leads Lynx to victory over Mystics"
Key Stats:
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks | Minutes | Shooting % | 3PT Made | |--------------|--------|----------|---------|--------|--------|---------|------------------|----------| | Alanna Smith | 25 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 36 | 66% (10/15 FG) | 4 | | Sonia Citron | 26 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 28 | Not specified FG | 4 |
- Despite the exciting victory by the Minnesota Lynx over the Washington Mystics in the WNBA game on July 28, 2025, the Washington Post reported that the Mystics fell short, with Napheesa Collier missing the game due to a right ankle injury for the Lynx.
- Alanna Smith's domineering display for the Lynx, with 25 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block in 36 minutes, earned her the headlines in ESPN's coverage of the game.
- Sonia Citron's outstanding performance for the Mystics, comprising 26 points, one rebound, four assists, and one steal in 28 minutes, included a notable streak of eight straight points for her team.
