What is the key to the Washington Mystics getting the road win that has eluded them this season? Defensive intensity, according to coach Richie Adubato.
The Mystics will take the court in Charlotte tonight as the WNBA’s answer to Jekyll and Hyde — they are 5-0 at home but 0-3 on the road.
Washington’s offense has been sterling at Verizon Center, averaging 23.4 more points than it does on the road. But Adubato said improved defense will be the difference.
“On a night when the shots aren’t going in, you have to play harder on the defensive end to make up for the fact thatyou’re not scoring,” Adubato said. “But you can still win the game.”
Their new emphasis on defense will be put to the test tonight. Charlotte and Washington have met twice this season, with each getting a win on their home court. The Mystics beat the Sting, 87-70, on Tuesday at Verizon Center.
Mystics guard Alana Beard is in agreement with her coach on how to solve their road woes.
“Defense wins games,” Beard said. “We have so many scorers on this team that if a few more shots start falling our offense will be alright. But if we don’t get stops we don’t win games.”
Washington Mystics (5-3) at Charlotte Sting (2-5)
» Where: Charlotte Bobcats Arena
» When: Tonight at 7
» TV: Comcast SportsNet
» Radio: 1260 AM
