The decisive moment
Washington never let Seattle settle into rhythm, holding the Storm to just 64 points and steadily stretching the lead. The Mystics' edge swelled to as many as 14, and they carried that margin all the way to the final buzzer for a 78-64 result.
By the numbers
- Final: Washington 78, Seattle 64 (14-point margin)
- Shakira Austin (WSH): 18 PTS, 13 REB, 5 AST
- Kiki Iriafen (WSH): 13 PTS, 9 REB
- Michaela Onyenwere (WSH): 14 PTS, 2 REB
- Jade Melbourne (SEA): 15 PTS, 3 REB, 3 AST
Austin's double-double anchored a balanced Washington attack, with Onyenwere and Iriafen providing complementary scoring and rebounding.
What it means
The win is a statement of defensive identity for Washington, which limited Seattle to 64 points in a 2026 WNBA Regular Season contest. Seattle, already navigating a thin frontcourt, struggled to generate consistent offense and managed only one player in double figures of note off Melbourne's 15. The result gives the Mystics momentum as the season's early-summer slate continues.
What to watch next
Seattle will look to regroup as it manages key absences, including Ezi Magbegor, who is expected to miss extended time with a right foot injury. Washington, meanwhile, will aim to build on its defensive blueprint when it returns to action.