Gut Check. The depleted Mystics were put to a real test on Sunday night: the second game of a back to back, facing the full strength Phoenix Mercury (including Taurasi and Pondexter) without DeLisha and without Alana. Down by as many as 17 points, the Mystics dug deep and pulled out the win, 81-78. Nikki T provided the critical four points down the stretch when the Mystics were down by one to cement the victory. Veterans Chasity Melvin and Crystal Robinson led the scoring with 20 points and 15 points, respectively. Nakia Sanford continues to evolve from a bench player to a genuine starter, with 14 points and 8 boards. Tot Byears also had 8 rebounds to go with 11 points in 15 minutes off the bench. The Mystics dominated the glass 55-31 and were nearly perfect from the free throw line, hitting 23 of 26. This was a phenomenal performance by the Mystics. On to Minny!!