Phoenix Mercury vs. Washington Mystics: Preview, Predictions and Picks for July 16, 2024

Published on:
Jul 16, 2024 8:10 AM
The Phoenix Mercury, fresh off a strong performance from Atkins' 36-point game, travel to Capital One Arena to face the Washington Mystics on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 11:30 AM. The Mercury, with a 12-12 overall record and 4-8 on the road, look to build on their 1-0 series lead against the Mystics, who are struggling with a 6-18 overall record and 3-8 at home. This WNBA matchup is set to be an intriguing contest between two teams on different trajectories.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Phoenix Mercury
Washington Mystics

Mercury vs Mystics statistics

Stat Mercury Mystics
Streak L2 L1
Last Ten Games 5-5 4-6
Points Per Game 83.3 78.9
Rebounds Per Game 32.3 31.8
Assists Per Game 19.5 21.9
Blocks Per Game 4.9 3.0
Steals Per Game 6.9 7.0
Field Goal % 43.2 42.8
Three Point % 33.4 37.0
Points Against 85.6 83.3

Washington Mystics recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
7/14/24 vs Las Vegas Aces L 89-77
7/10/24 @ Indiana Fever W 89-84
7/6/24 @ Minnesota Lynx L 74-67
7/4/24 @ Las Vegas Aces L 98-77
7/2/24 @ Los Angeles Sparks W 82-80

Phoenix Mercury recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
7/14/24 @ Connecticut Sun L 96-69
7/12/24 @ Indiana Fever L 95-86
7/10/24 vs Dallas Wings W 100-84
7/7/24 @ Los Angeles Sparks W 84-78
7/3/24 @ Dallas Wings W 104-96

Mercury vs Mystics predictions

As the Phoenix Mercury gears up to take on the Washington Mystics, all eyes might justifiably be on Kahleah Copper. Known for her dynamic scoring ability, she's currently averaging a solid 23.2 points per game. Alongside her, Natasha Cloud, orchestrating the plays with an impressive 7.2 assists per game, could potentially exploit any defensive weaknesses in the Mystics' lineup. Natasha Mack, shouldering the rebounding responsibilities with an average of 5.0 rebounds per game, will also be crucial in controlling the board and turning those opportunities into points. Their combined efforts could set a challenging pace for Washington.

Speaking of Washington, Ariel Atkins recently dropped a whopping 36 points, and she’s likely to carry that momentum into her next game. With her leading the scoring, the Mystics will be depending on her to replicate that performance against Phoenix. Julie Vanloo, feeding the ball with an average of 5.1 assists per game, will need to find ways to dissect the Mercury's defense. On the rebounding front, Aaliyah Edwards, averaging 5.9 rebounds, will be vital in her efforts against Phoenix's frontcourt, potentially giving Washington extra possessions they desperately need to capitalize on.

With both teams prepped up, predicting the winner comes down to considering both momentum and matchups. Given the Mercury’s balanced attack and road resilience compared to the Mystics' struggles this season, Phoenix might have the slight edge. However, basketball is unpredictable, and Washington, spurred by Atkins' explosive scoring, could very well rise to the occasion. It'll be a test of whether Phoenix can clamp down defensively or if Washington can turn their fortunes around with a standout performance at home.

Washington Mystics injuries

  • DiDi Richards (G): Day-To-Day
  • Brittney Sykes (G): Out
  • Shakira Austin (C): Out
  • Karlie Samuelson (G): Out

Phoenix Mercury injuries

  • Sug Sutton (G): Out
  • Charisma Osborne (G): Out

Mercury vs Mystics game info

Venue Capital One Arena
Location Washington, DC
Tip-off Tue 11:30 AM
TV MNMT

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