In the House

Of course the Mystics were in the house, as were the Chicago Sky. But tonight the host team enjoyed themselves while making their guests feel decidedly unwelcome. For the second time this season, Washington topped Chicago at the Verizon Center, 75-64.

Finally this evening, fans were treated to a game that featured 4 complete -- and fun -- quarters of Mystics basketball. For a respectable -- but modest -- crowd on a Thursday night, the Phone Booth was rockin. The fans could've stayed home and watched on ESPN2, but they came anyway. Lots of positive energy in the house, and lots of folks having a good time!

As for the game, Washington raced out to an early lead, thanks in large part to 8 first quarter points by Crystal Langhorne, plus solid contributions from several other Mystics players. One of those contributors, reserve PG Nikki Blue, played only the final 2:07 of the first half. But Blue used her limited playing time extremely well. Nikki drove to the basket and scored on a short floater; she fed Crystal for an assist; and, moments later, she grabbed a defensive rebound. Nikki also came oh-so-close to hitting a 3 as time expired at the end of the half! Bluuuue (!) and the entire Mystics team left the floor to a loud enthusiastic ovation, as the Mystics were up at the break, 38-24.

In the second half, the Mystics held the Sky at bay . . . extending the lead to 15 points after 3 quarters, and stifling Chicago's 4th quarter attempt at a comeback. Down the stretch in the final period, ought-to-be All Star Lindsey Harding and super-reserve Matee Ajavon hit big shots that helped their team coast to a double-digit victory. Lindsey and Matee finished in double figures, with 15 & 14 points respectively. Lindsey also dished out 6 assists and chased down 5 rebounds! But game-high scoring honors went to Crystal Langhorne, who recorded another double-double this season, 16 points & 10 rbs.

Tonight, the Mystics beat the Sky with a well-balanced effort on both ends of the floor, and not only improved their record to 8-7, but played a complete game . . . something that's been eluding them of late. When play resumes after the short break for Saturday's All-Star Game in Connecticut, hopefully the Mystics can carry this momentum into Sunday's meeting with the Monarchs (who posted a convincing win of their own against the Liberty in Madison Square Garden tonight).

Also in the house . . .

ESPN2 Announcer Carolyn Peck -- here interviewing Coach Julie Plank.

Detroit Shock guard -- and WNBA All-Star reserve -- Katie Smith, stopping by Washington before heading to Mohegan Sun arena for Saturday's game.

Cedric The Entertainer found the game mighty entertaining!

And naturally, with 60% of her 2006 National Championship-winning starting line-up (Lang, Marissa and KT) playing tonight, Maryland Head Coach Brenda Frese couldn't possibly miss this game!

Photo Credit: DC BasketCases