The Washington Mystics kicked off their 2025 WNBA campaign in style, edging out the Atlanta Dream 94-90 in a nail-biter at CareFirst Arena. It was a gritty season opener with momentum swinging both ways, but the Mystics closed out strong with a 4-0 run in the final seconds to secure their first win.
Brittney Sykes led the charge with 22 points, despite a rough shooting night (6-of-20 FG, 1-of-6 from three). But it was the rookies who really brought the heat, Sonia Citron dropped 19 points in her debut, and Kiki Iriafen added 14, showcasing serious poise on the big stage.
The Dream didn’t go quietly though. Allisha Gray exploded for 22 points on an efficient 6-of-10 from the floor and a sizzling 6-of-8 from deep, nearly stealing the show late in the fourth.
Adding a little extra star power to the stands? None other than new Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and his newly-acquired wideout Deebo Samuel, pulling up courtside to show some love to D.C.’s women’s squad. Their appearance turned heads and lit up social media, with fans buzzing about the NFL stars embracing the city’s sports scene.
With Daniels just beginning his pro journey and Samuel freshly traded in, the duo’s chemistry is already building off the field. And what better way to bond than courtside at a home opener?
Back to the hardwood, the Mystics held a slim 88-86 lead with 1:20 left, but things got tense when Gray knocked down a clutch and-one. It was all tied at 90 before Sykes came through again, hitting a pair of free throws to help ice the win. Despite missing key players like Shakira Austin, Georgia Amoore (ACL), and Aaliyah Edwards, the Mystics showed depth and resilience, proving they’ve got some fight this season.
