The days of struggling to score 60 points are a thing of the past. The Washington Mystics and their new high-scoring style has led to a 3-1 record, matching the best start in franchise history.
In each of the team’s three wins the Mystics have scored at least 90 points and they currently lead the league in points per game (85) and field goal percentage (48.7). Mystics power forward DeLisha Milton-Jones credits a revamped, up-tempo approach for their early success and said the league’s adoption of a 24 second shot clock was a catalyst for the change.
“The rulesthat [the league] implemented this year helps us to play faster which means we get more shot attempts,” Milton-Jones said. “When we’re running and teams aren’t stopping our transition then we can put up big buckets.”
Mystics head coach Richie Adubato said his team’s approach is a better fit for the personnel.
“We play better when we play fast,” Adubato said. “Alana Beard really shines when we play fast and DeLisha Milton-Jones at the four is usually quicker than the big fours that she’s guarding so she has the chance to look really good.”
The Mystics new style and success will be put to the test tonight against the Houston Comets, led by All-Stars Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson and Dawn Staley.
“They have a very good team led by their All-Stars,” Adubato said. “And they’ve got a veteran team who knows how to win, so it should be a good test for our team.”
Houston Comets (5-1) at Washington Mystics (3-1)
» Where: Verizon Center
» When: Tonight at 7
» TV: None
» Radio: WWRC-1260
