Washington Mystics edged the Las Vegas Aces 100-99 on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, claiming a dramatic home result at CareFirst Arena as Shakira Austin led the way with 25 points and the decisive late sequence proved pivotal in a one-point finish.
This was a fixture decided by fine margins, and the quarter-by-quarter flow reflected that throughout. Las Vegas took the first period 22-21, but Washington stayed in touch and gradually built control through its ball movement, turning a one-point halftime deficit into a 46-44 platform for the second half after the Aces led 45-46 at the break.
The third period looked as if it might tilt the match decisively toward the visitors. The Aces poured in 33 points in the quarter, with A’ja Wilson carrying the attacking load and keeping Washington under pressure in the paint. Yet the Mystics matched that phase well enough to avoid losing contact, taking a 71-78 deficit into the final period with the contest still alive.
That set up a superb closing stretch from the home side. Washington produced a 29-point fourth quarter while holding Las Vegas to 21, flipping the rhythm of the fixture when it mattered most. The Mystics were sharper in their execution down the stretch, attacked the basket to get to the line, and found just enough perimeter quality to complete the comeback.
Tactically, Washington’s edge came from two areas. First, the Mystics were far stronger on the glass, finishing with a 35-24 rebounding advantage. Second, they shared the ball more effectively, posting 24 assists to Las Vegas’ 18. Even though the Aces shot an excellent 54.8 percent from the floor and got 38 points from Wilson, Washington’s extra possessions and cleaner collective play ultimately outweighed that efficiency.
The Mystics also made their three-point looks count, shooting 53.8 percent from beyond the arc with seven makes. Combined with 23 free throws, that gave them enough attacking balance to offset Wilson’s outstanding individual display. Las Vegas were efficient themselves, going 26-of-29 at the line, but Washington’s ability to generate volume across the match proved decisive.
Key performers
Austin was the standout for Washington with 25 points and six rebounds, setting the tone as the Mystics stayed within reach before making their late push. Kiki Iriafen added control on the boards with 10 rebounds, while Sonia Citron supplied the creative thread with eight assists.
For the Aces, Wilson delivered the biggest individual performance on the night with 38 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Jackie Young added seven assists, but Las Vegas could not quite find the final defensive stop they needed in the closing possessions.
NerdSports Stat: Washington overcame a 7-point deficit entering the fourth quarter despite facing an opponent that shot 54.8 percent from the floor, and did it by winning the possession battle by 11 rebounds and 6 assists.
The result moves Washington to 14-12 and gives the Mystics a valuable lift in the playoff race, especially against one of the league’s stronger road sides. Las Vegas, now 18-8, remain well placed near the top of the table but will regret letting a strong third quarter go to waste. The Mystics will look to carry this momentum into their next fixture, while the Aces will aim for a quick response on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
No goal scorers were listed for this fixture. Washington were led by Shakira Austin with 25 points, while A’ja Wilson had 38 points for Las Vegas.
Washington Mystics 100 – 99 Las Vegas Aces.
Washington improved to 14-12 and strengthened their push in the playoff race, while Las Vegas fell to 18-8 but remain among the top sides in the league standings.
Shakira Austin was the standout performer with 25 points in Washington’s one-point victory.
