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Mystics Defeat Dream, Clinch Playoff Berth
A Hard-Fought Victory
The Washington Mystics secured a spot in the WNBA playoffs with a thrilling 87-82 victory over the Atlanta Dream on Sunday. The Mystics overcame a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to earn the hard-fought win.
Elena Delle Donne Leads the Way
Elena Delle Donne was instrumental in the Mystics' victory, scoring a game-high 25 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. The two-time WNBA MVP was efficient from the field, shooting 10-of-19, and hit two crucial three-pointers in the fourth quarter.
Ariel Atkins Steps Up
Ariel Atkins also played a key role for the Mystics, scoring 18 points and dishing out 6 assists. The third-year guard was aggressive on the offensive end, driving to the basket and knocking down shots from beyond the arc.
Defensive Stand in the Fourth Quarter
The Mystics' defense stepped up in the fourth quarter, holding the Dream to just 12 points. The Mystics forced 6 turnovers in the final period and limited the Dream to 33.3% shooting from the field.
A Playoff Push
With the win, the Mystics improve to 19-13 and move into fifth place in the WNBA standings. They are now one game ahead of the Dallas Wings for the fifth and final playoff spot with two games remaining in the regular season.
The Dream's Playoff Hopes Dwindle
The Dream's playoff hopes took a major hit with the loss. They fall to 14-18 and remain in eighth place in the standings. The Dream are now 2.5 games behind the Wings for the final playoff spot with three games remaining in the regular season.
Chennedy Carter's Stellar Performance
Despite the loss, Chennedy Carter had a standout performance for the Dream. The rookie guard scored 24 points and dished out 5 assists. Carter was efficient from the field, shooting 9-of-16, and hit four three-pointers.
Plummeting Playoff Chances
The Dream's playoff chances are now slim. They need to win their remaining three games and hope that the Wings lose at least one of their final two games to have a chance at the playoffs.