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Mystics have one major issue to clean up before Game 2 against the Dream

The Washington Mystics face elimination following a 92-77 defeat to the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of their WNBA playoff series on Sunday night. Despite a promising initial half, Washington unraveled after the break by committing 22 turnovers, which the Dream converted into 27 points.

Atlanta capitalized on a dominant second half featuring strong performances from DeWanna Bonner, Allisha Gray, and Rhyne Howard to secure the double-digit victory. Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and their teammates now face a must-win scenario on Wednesday to keep their postseason hopes alive.

To force a decisive third game back in Atlanta, the WNBA's youngest roster must drastically improve their ball control and limit transition opportunities for their opponents. Washington matched an unwanted franchise benchmark with their turnover total, while also being outscored 56-36 across the third and fourth quarters combined.

Head coach and players will need to lean heavily on their trademark physicality and interior size from players like Shakira Austin and Lauren Betts to counter the aggressive Atlanta defense.

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