The Mystics Won, But.

The Mystics were up by 16 points over New York at the end of the 3rd period, BUT were outscored 10-25 in the 4th, so they only won by the slimmest of margins -- a single point, 68-67. Way better than losing by one point, BUT far too close for comfort. We were hoping that tonight we might be treated to a game that wasn't decided by the final rebound, final free throw, final inbound play, final foul call or final shot . . . BUT it wasn't to be.

Most of the Mystics played somewhat below average tonight (as did their opponent, the Liberty). BUT fortunately, there was one member of the home team who played consistently well throughout the game, making big plays . . . point guard Lindsey Harding. Lindsey led all scorers with 23 points. She also added 5 assists and 7 rebounds, and was a perfect 8 of 8 from the free throw line. With the game still in doubt, Lindsey's final free throw gave the Mystics a 4-point lead in the final seconds that sealed the win for Washington. New York hit a three as the final buzzer sounded, BUT Lindsey's free-throw made it irrelevant.

With every game, Lindsey seems to be coming into her own as the floor general and one of the real leaders of the Mystics team. In the BasketCases' opinion, she is playing at an All-Star level. We would be shocked (and disappointed) if she isn't named as a reserve to the Eastern Conference All-Star team by the Conference coaches this coming week. We hope to see Lindsey join her Mystics teammate (and former college teammate) All-Star starter Alana Beard in Connecticut next Saturday.

But before that game, the Mystics face the Eastern Conference leading Indiana Fever at Verizon Center on Tuesday, and the Chicago Sky make a return visit to Washington on Thursday.

As we reported this morning, this was Alex "13 Teams, 1 Journey" Chambers's night at the Phone Booth. It was a pleasure to meet him and we hope he enjoys the rest of his tour through the WNBA. (And Alex, thanks for the shirts!)

Photo Credits: DC BasketCases