Shakira Austin Leads Surging Mystics Into Home Finale Against Mercury and Kelsey Plum

Shakira Austin has scored more than 20 points in four of the Washington Mystics’ last five games, serving as a key driver of the team’s current six-game-winning streak.

Austin and the Mystics (18-12) look to extend their momentum on Sunday afternoon as they host the Phoenix Mercury (12-21) in the final game of their six-game homestand.

In Washington’s 79-74 victory over the Atlanta Dream on Friday, Austin contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds. She is averaging 16.1 points and 9.6 rebounds per game this season.

After the win, Austin reflected on what has fueled her recent success on the court.

“Just getting in my spots, knowing when there are mismatches, understanding the best ways to attack based on the opposing post players. Usually when they’re smaller, I keep it simple,” Austin said.

“It’s also about recognizing that a mismatch is likely almost every time and making the correct reads.”

The Mercury are looking to recover after consecutive losses, including a 75-72 defeat to the Connecticut Sun on Friday. Despite the setback, Kelsey Plum—acquired in a midseason trade from Los Angeles—delivered a 25-point performance and has led Phoenix in scoring in both games since joining the team.

Head coach Nate Tibbetts was not surprised by Plum’s strong start. A five-time All-Star, Plum is averaging 23.4 points and 5.9 assists per game.

“The great thing about KP is that she’s played alongside exceptional talent—whether with the USA Basketball program or in Los Angeles,” Tibbetts said in a postgame press conference. “She’s a natural fit. She’s incredibly intelligent and truly loves the game, which I believe will create more opportunities for everyone involved.”

The matchup marks the conclusion of Washington’s six-game homestand, one during which the team has not suffered a loss.

Phoenix, meanwhile, is in the midst of their fourth consecutive road trip, where they hold a 1-2 record so far.

—Field Level Media

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