Mystics Defeat Sun 79-69 in WNBA Matchup
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 7:30 PM ET · CareFirst Arena
Washington Mystics 79, Connecticut Sun 69, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Connecticut Sun vs Washington Mystics?
Washington Mystics beat Connecticut Sun 79-69 at CareFirst Arena on September 22, 2026.
Who was favored in Connecticut Sun vs Washington Mystics?
Washington Mystics were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -2400 (about 96% implied). The favorite won.
The Washington Mystics secured a solid victory against the Connecticut Sun, finishing the game with a score of 79-69. This matchup was particularly noteworthy as the Mystics continued their strong performance this season, boasting a home record of 27-16, while the Sun struggled with an away record of 10-33. The Mystics have now won the series against the Sun 3-1, demonstrating their dominance in recent meetings.
In terms of recent form, the Mystics have been performing well, recording a 7-3 record over their last ten games and currently riding a two-game winning streak. They averaged 89.7 points scored while allowing 83.1 points during this stretch. Their last five games have shown even better results, with an average of 91.8 points scored and 80.4 points allowed. In contrast, the Sun have faced significant challenges, with a record of 2-8 in their last ten games and a five-game losing streak. They have averaged 76.7 points scored and 91.9 points allowed in that same timeframe, highlighting their struggles both offensively and defensively.
At home, the Mystics have performed well, holding a 2-1 record in their last three home games. The Sun, however, have not found success on the road, with a dismal 0-5 record in their last five away games. This game took place at the CareFirst Arena, a venue where the Mystics have been particularly strong.
In their previous meetings this season, the Mystics have shown their ability to outplay the Sun. In their last encounter on July 28, 2026, the Mystics won 92-84 at home, following a loss earlier in June. The Mystics have consistently found ways to overcome the Sun, as evidenced by their overall head-to-head record of 4-3 since 2025.
Injuries played a significant role in the Sun's performance, as they were without key players including Hailey Van Lith, Saniya Rivers, Olivia Nelson-Ododa, Brittney Griner, and Kennedy Burke. The absence of these players undoubtedly impacted the Sun's ability to compete effectively against a strong Mystics team.
The betting market reflected the Mystics' expected dominance, with DraftKings setting the spread at -17.5 in favor of Washington. The total for the game was set at 161.5, with odds of -115.0 for the over and -105.0 for the under. The moneyline odds indicated a heavy favorite for the Mystics at -2400.0, while the Sun were positioned at 1200.0.
Conditions during the game were favorable for basketball, contributing to a competitive atmosphere. Viewers were treated to a display of skill, particularly from Shakira Austin, who made several key plays in the fourth quarter, including a crucial layup and free throws that helped secure the victory for the Mystics. The Mystics' ability to maintain control in the final moments of the game was a testament to their strong performance throughout the contest.
Overall, the Mystics' victory over the Sun not only solidified their position in the league but also showcased their capability to perform under pressure, particularly at home. The Sun will need to regroup and address their injury issues if they hope to improve their performance in the remaining games of the season.
What we said beforehand
The Washington Mystics will face off against the Connecticut Sun at CareFirst Arena on September 22, 2026, in a matchup that highlights a stark contrast in team performances this season. The Mystics have a strong home record of 26-16, while the Sun have struggled significantly with an away record of 10-32. This game is particularly notable as the Mystics currently lead the series 2-1 against the Sun this season, having won their last encounter on July 28, 2026, with a score of 92-84.
In their recent form, the Mystics have been impressive, winning four of their last five games. Their most recent victory was a solid 93-77 win against the Indiana Fever on September 20, 2026. Over their last five games, they have averaged 91.8 points scored while allowing 80.4 points. This scoring efficiency has been bolstered by standout performances from players like Shakira Austin, who leads the team with an average of 17.0 points per game.
Conversely, the Connecticut Sun have been on a downward spiral, losing their last five games. Their most recent match resulted in a 101-89 defeat to the Minnesota Lynx on September 20, 2026. The Sun have struggled offensively, averaging only 74.8 points in their last five games while allowing a staggering 100.2 points. Olivia Nelson-Ododa, who is out due to a knee injury, was a key player for the Sun, averaging 10.1 points per game.
Home court advantage has played a significant role in the Mystics' success. They have a record of 7-3 in their last ten games at home, scoring an average of 89.7 points while allowing 83.1 points. The Mystics have also won their last two games at home, showcasing their ability to perform under familiar conditions. In contrast, the Sun have struggled on the road, with a dismal away record of 0-5 in their last five games, averaging only 76.7 points and allowing 91.9 points.
In terms of injuries, the Connecticut Sun will be significantly impacted, as they will be without Hailey Van Lith (coach's decision), Saniya Rivers (ankle), Olivia Nelson-Ododa (knee), Brittney Griner (knee), and Kennedy Burke (shoulder). This list of absences could further hinder their chances against a strong Mystics team.
The betting market reflects the disparity in team performance, with DraftKings pricing the Mystics as 17.5-point favorites. The total for the game is set at 160.5, with the over odds at -115.0 and the under odds at -105.0. The moneyline shows the Mystics at -2100.0, indicating a strong belief in their ability to secure a victory.
As the game approaches, viewers should watch for the Mystics' offensive strategy, especially how they utilize Shakira Austin and Sonia Citron, who leads the team in assists with 4.4 per game. Additionally, the Mystics' ability to capitalize on the Sun's defensive weaknesses will be crucial. For the Sun, the focus will be on how they adapt to the absence of key players and whether they can find a way to improve their scoring efficiency.
Overall, this matchup promises to be an intriguing contest, with the Mystics looking to solidify their dominance over the Sun while Connecticut aims to break their losing streak.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | WSH -17.5 | 161.5 o -115 / u -105 | Connecticut Sun +1200 · Washington Mystics -2400 |
Injury report
- Hailey Van LithOutCoach's DecisionConnecticut Sun
- Saniya RiversOutAnkleConnecticut Sun
- Olivia Nelson-OdodaOutKneeConnecticut Sun
- Brittney GrinerOutKneeConnecticut Sun
- Kennedy BurkeOutShoulderConnecticut Sun
Leaders
- PointsShakira Austin25Washington Mystics
- AssistsSonia Citron3Washington Mystics
- ReboundsShakira Austin13Washington Mystics
- PointsDiamond Miller19Connecticut Sun
- AssistsLeila Lacan3Connecticut Sun
- ReboundsAaliyah Edwards13Connecticut Sun
Recent form
Washington Mystics
Last 10: 7-3Streak W289.7 scored · 83.1 allowed per game2-1 at home
- W93-77at Indiana FeverSep 20
- W110-80at Chicago SkySep 18
- L82-88at Los Angeles SparksAug 29
- W80-73at Phoenix MercuryAug 28
- W94-84at Phoenix MercuryAug 26
- W105-100at Portland FireAug 23
- L84-94vs Minnesota LynxAug 21
- W93-82vs Toronto TempoAug 19
- W80-70vs Los Angeles SparksAug 15
- L76-83at Las Vegas AcesAug 14
Connecticut Sun
Last 10: 2-8Streak L576.7 scored · 91.9 allowed per game0-5 away
- L89-101vs Minnesota LynxSep 20
- L59-103at Atlanta DreamSep 17
- L71-97at Dallas WingsAug 31
- L91-111at Indiana FeverAug 28
- L64-89vs Golden State ValkyriesAug 26
- W87-81vs Chicago SkyAug 25
- L68-77at Los Angeles SparksAug 23
- L78-101at Las Vegas AcesAug 21
- W85-77vs Los Angeles SparksAug 18
- L75-82vs New York LibertyAug 15
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | - | 14 | W4 | .674 | 29 |
| Indiana | 1.5 | 15 | L1 | .643 | 27 |
| Washington | 2 | 16 | W3 | .628 | 27 |
| New York | 3 | 17 | L1 | .605 | 26 |
| Chicago | 13 | 27 | W1 | .372 | 16 |
| Toronto | 18 | 32 | L7 | .256 | 11 |
| Connecticut | 19 | 33 | L6 | .233 | 10 |
Box score
| Stat | Connecticut Sun | Washington Mystics |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 28-72 | 27-71 |
| Field goal % | 39 | 38 |
| Three-pointers | 5-23 | 6-19 |
| Three-point % | 22 | 32 |
| Free throws | 8-12 | 19-25 |
| Free throw % | 67 | 76 |
| Rebounds | 43 | 34 |
| Offensive rebounds | 13 | 10 |
| Defensive rebounds | 30 | 24 |
| Assists | 21 | 13 |
| Steals | 3 | 7 |
| Blocks | 6 | 4 |
| Turnovers | 18 | 6 |
| Team turnovers | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 28 | 2 |
| Fast-break points | 0 | 6 |
| Points in the paint | 38 | 36 |
| Fouls | 19 | 18 |
| Largest lead | 4 | 14 |
| Lead changes | 3 | 3 |
| Time in front | 9 | 73 |
How the scoring went
- 2nd Quarter39-37Diamond Miller makes driving layup (Rayah Marshall assists)
- 2nd Quarter39-38Shakira Austin makes free throw 1 of 2
- 2nd Quarter39-39Shakira Austin makes free throw 2 of 2
- 2nd Quarter39-41Cotie McMahon makes running layup
- 2nd Quarter41-41Charlisse Leger-Walker makes 15-foot pullup jump shot (Rayah Marshall assists)
- 2nd Quarter41-44Cotie McMahon makes 24-foot three point jumper (Shakira Austin assists)
- 2nd Quarter42-44Diamond Miller makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter43-44Diamond Miller makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter43-46Shakira Austin makes 18-foot pullup jump shot (Georgia Amoore assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-46Aaliyah Edwards makes 2-foot layup (Raegan Beers assists)
- 3rd Quarter45-48Michaela Onyenwere makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter47-48Raegan Beers makes 2-foot layup (Leila Lacan assists)
- 3rd Quarter47-50Sonia Citron makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter47-52Sonia Citron makes 10-foot two point shot
- 3rd Quarter47-53Shakira Austin makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter47-54Shakira Austin makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter50-54Charlisse Leger-Walker makes 25-foot three point jumper (Nell Angloma assists)
- 3rd Quarter50-55Shakira Austin makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter50-56Shakira Austin makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter50-59Betnijah Laney-Hamilton makes 24-foot three point jumper (Sonia Citron assists)
- 3rd Quarter51-59Nell Angloma makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter51-61Cotie McMahon makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter51-62Sonia Citron makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter51-63Sonia Citron makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter53-63Nell Angloma makes driving layup (Ashlon Jackson assists)
- 3rd Quarter53-66Cotie McMahon makes 26-foot three pointer (Lauren Betts assists)
- 3rd Quarter56-66Diamond Miller makes 25-foot three point jumper (Leila Lacan assists)
- 3rd Quarter58-66Aaliyah Edwards makes driving layup (Nell Angloma assists)
- 4th Quarter61-66Leila Lacan makes 28-foot three point jumper (Gianna Kneepkens assists)
- 4th Quarter61-69Georgia Amoore makes 23-foot three point jumper (Cotie McMahon assists)
- 4th Quarter61-70Cotie McMahon makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter61-72Shakira Austin makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter63-72Nell Angloma makes 2-foot layup (Charlisse Leger-Walker assists)
- 4th Quarter63-73Shakira Austin makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter63-75Shakira Austin makes 2-foot layup (Sonia Citron assists)
- 4th Quarter63-77Shakira Austin makes 14-foot pullup jump shot (Georgia Amoore assists)
- 4th Quarter65-77Gianna Kneepkens makes 12-foot pullup jump shot (Nell Angloma assists)
- 4th Quarter65-79Georgia Amoore makes 3-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter67-79Diamond Miller makes driving layup (Charlisse Leger-Walker assists)
- 4th Quarter69-79Rayah Marshall makes two point shot
Win probability
Above the line favours Washington Mystics, below favours Connecticut Sun.
Venue
- CareFirst ArenaWashington, DC
- Attendance4200
- OfficialsAgon Abazi, Catherine Chang, Sarah Williams
Elsewhere
- Austin has 25 points and 13 rebounds as the Mystics beat the Sun 79-69 for franchise-record 27th win
- Washington Mystics vs. Connecticut Sun - Game Highlights
- Lynx star Olivia Miles (calf) late scratch for game vs. Fever
- Stewart's 9-year no-tech streak snapped in Liberty's loss
- WNBA Power Rankings: What went right for every team this season
- Atlanta plays New York, seeks 30th victory of season
- Dallas faces Seattle after Bueckers' 30-point game
- Kahleah Copper scores 16 of her 31 in 4th quarter and the Mercury rally past the Wings 87-86