In front of 15,958 fans at Madison Square Garden, the Washington Mystics dropped their first preseason game of the 2009 season to the New York Liberty by a score of 77-71.
A slow start for the Mystics proved too much to overcome, as they trailed 19-7 after the first quarter of play. Although they recovered in the second quarter by outscoring the Liberty 22-12, at the final buzzer the Liberty finished with higher shooting percentages from the floor, the free throw line and from 3-point range.
Another key to the game showed up in the turnover category. The Mystics handed the ball over 6 more times than the Liberty for a total of 20 turnovers.
In spite of the final score, there were several bright spots for the Mystics. Forward Nakia Sanford #43 led all scorers with 17 points. She also brought down 8 rebounds. Teammate Crystal Langhorne #1 had a big day as well with her 15 points and 6 rebounds. First round draft pick (2nd overall) Marissa Coleman wearing #4 checked in at 3:37 left in the 1st quarter and scored her first WNBA points off of a jumper just inside the 3-point line. She finished with 7 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks.
After the game, Alana Beard Tweeted, “Helloo!! Soooo, we just played a game aganist the Liberty. We came up a little short, but we looked sooo good in spurts! Im so excited!”
Nikki Blue also had this comment: “Well we lost... I didn't play that well, but the thing about hoop is that tomorrow I get another chance. Gotta stay positive. Gotta fight!”
The Mystics will get another chance against the Liberty on May 28th at 11am when they play their preseason home opener.
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