Wednesday night’s matchup between the between the Indiana Fever and the Washington Mystics proved true to form as the two strong defensive teams grinded it out in the nation’s capital. A solid start by the Fever (5-9) was quickly overcome by the Mystics (7-7) as the home team came away with the victory, 76-62.
Good looks at the basket were at a premium for both teams in this low scoring affair. The Fever shot 38.1% from the field, which was only slightly bested by the Mystics’ 38.5% shooting.
The Fever jumped out to an early advantage, leading by nine with 6:45 remain in the second period. This mark would prove to be the high point for Indiana, as their lead would quickly dwindle thanks to numerous untimely fouls which paved the way for Washington’s comeback. The Fever would see that margin cut to a single point going into halftime, 35-34.
Another sluggish third quarter from Indiana left them facing a three-point deficit to start the final period. Washington held the lead on their home court, winning 76-62.
The Fever connected on more shots than Washington, but the Mystics were able to make up the difference at the charity stripe. Indiana’s physical defensive style seemed to backfire as Washington saw twice as many trips to the free throw line, making 31 of their 37 attempts.
“We need to get back to work. We need to get back to some of the basics. We’re undisciplined on defense, individually and as a team. And we can’t continue having so many empty possessions on offense. Every game it’s the same things, unnecessary fouls and turnovers,” stated Coach White postgame.
Indiana also struggled from long rang, missing eight of nine attempts from three. Washington knocked down 5-of-16 from distance.
Lynetta Kizer, a native of the Washington, D.C. area, scored 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting to lead all scorers. The 6’4” power forward had her range on display, scoring the majority of her points from outside of the paint while matching a game-high seven rebounds in the process. Kizer anchored a bench unit which scored 35 of the teams 62 points while Indiana’s starters shot 25% in this mid-week contest.
Washington guard Tayler Hill led the Mystics with 16 points, followed by Emma Meesseman and Ivory Latta who each contributed 12 points.
The Fever will have a few days to right the ship before the team’s first game in Dallas. They’ll take on the Wings Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. ET on FOX Sports Indiana.