Mystics Set the Sun, but Playoffs Off the Horizon

So, 31 of the most die hard Fans trooped up to CT to cheer the Mystics on to Victory. Big shout out to the crew from Amtrack and all Mystics fans, we had a great time in CT at Moehgan Arena.

If you are a true Mystics fan, then you know that we do not like to do things easy. If there is a way to take the game to the wire, then we will take it there. Sunday was no exception. The Mystics pulled this squewker out 76-72, keeping the Mystic playofff attempts alive. Unfortunately, about 3 hours later, this dream was over when the Libety beat the Sky 58-52 in down to the wire game at the Garden.

The Mystics started weak, they seem to lack the confidence that I am used to seeing from the Mystics right off the bench. In the first quarter, the Mystics were out scored by Sun almost 2 to 1 and some were concerned that the Mystics had given up. But true Mystics fans knew that we were just getting warmed up and in the second and third, the starting bench with help from Gillian and Coco, let America know how we do it in the Nation's Capital. The 2nd qtr was about being more competitive on offense and the Mystics increased their scoring to be more competitive with the Sun. But every true basketball fan knows that offense without defense is dead in the water, so coming out of the locker room after halftime, the Mystics got busy. The 3rd qtr the Mystics defense held the Sun, while offense outscored them nearly 2 to 1. In the 4th, the Sun rallied and it remained neck in neck, until the career making 3 pointer made by Monique Currie with 0.1 seconds left in the game.

So after taking a quick poll of the fans at the game, no surprise Monique Currie is the Highlight Award winner. After a rough couple of games and less game time, Mo cam through in the clinch and on ABC to boot!!!! That is what the WNBA is about.



This one is of Mo and my friend's daughter, Chanae at the All Star games. She thinks next Mo will be an unstoppable All Star and I agree.

Mystics Are Down But Not Out

Nothing is ever easy in Love or Basketball and the Mystics proved this point tonight. If the Mystics had won tonight, it would have clinched their position in the playoff. However, the fat lady has not sung and we are still in it. In order for the Mystics to retain their position in the playoffs, the following combination of things MUST happen....

1. The Mystics beat the Sun in Connecticut on Sunday; and
2. The Liberty lose one of their remaining 2 games.

So, Mystics fans, add the team to the prayer list and/or rub your lucky rabbit's foot, we will be on the edge of our seats for the weekend, while the Liberty take the Sun and Sky at Madison Square Garden.

Okay, okay I will get to tonight's game. Well, it was rough. The Liberty are a good team that played well and the refs were their sixth man, especially Camaron Inouye#13. She must have just gotten her whistle because I have never seen a ref call more one sided and imaginary calls this season. Tonight's game is a live example of why we may want to consider "instant replay" in the WNBA. Damn, I am off track, back to the game. The Mystics played well, from the beginning they played like this game meant something. For 3 of 4 quarters they matched the Liberty play for play, but a bad call in the 2nd qtr against Delisha, caused her to lose her cool, which resulted in a tech costing us 3 points, followed by missed shots by AB and Delisha. By hey, this is just one blogger's opinion. At the end, of the day, both teams needed this win and played hard to get it. The Mystics just came up short. Alright, on to Connecticut. I will be there, I hope you will too!!!!!!

BTW, I forgot the Highlight Award. Tonight is tough, because the whole team really pulled together and played hard. You know what, the highlight award goes to the fans for showing up and showing out. So in honor of fan appreciation day, I honor Us Fans!!!!!! Buy your tickets for next year and bring a friend!!!!!!!

(I left my camera, but I will add some cool fan pixs here this weekend!)

Tonight, I want to end our last home game with a few shout outs:

- To the Mystic Mayhem, thanks for the great energy and dances all summer long and tonight was the best half show entertainment this season.
- To my fellow fans in Section 112, thanks for making every home game a blast. See you next season.
- To Linda Hargrove, thanks for the chalk talks. They are really informative and lots of fun to get the inside scoop.

Mystics Put out the Sun

Mystics fans we are one step closer to playoff closer. If it one thing you learn as a Mystics fan it is that we like it down to the wire. Today's game and our playoff bid are no exceptions, we are taking it down to the wire. Tonight we set the Sun by 1 point, 65 to 64. It wasn't pretty, but it counts. And when we make the playoffs, we will be the last team named to the playoffs in the entire league.

Okay, we got a lot to talk about, so let get to it. Well, I have already done a big tribute to Nikki T, but thank God she was healthy enough to play tonight. Her ability to call play and switch plays as the game presents itself helped to focus the team and lead us to victory. (Her 6 rebounds didn't hurt, either :) Up against Dydek in the paint, the reverse post play was genius. This play switched the post players to the top of the key forcing Dydek to defend outside the paint. This provided several opportunities for AB to drive to the basket, earning her an amazing 28 points. In the first half, Delisha was taken out with a nasty uncalled foul by Lindsey Whalen which required her to receive stitches and be out most of the game. Hold your head up Delisha. We will need you next game.

Finally, tonight's highlight award goes to a the quintessential sixth man, Coco Miller. Coco has held this role on this Mystics for the last 3 years, but with Monique Currie playing like shit, Section 112 thinks Coco may be ready for the starting line up. While Coco posted decent numbers, shooting 6 of 7 for 15 points, 4 rebounds and 2 steals. The big reason for the award is her timing. Coco made shots in the cliches and rebounds when it counted. A special appreciation to Coco for the amazing offensive rebound with 30 seconds left that prevented Sun possession for another 21 seconds, which helped hold the slim 65-64 victory for the Mystics.

Coco congratulations for your 500th rebound during the Seattle game. I WAS THERE!!!!! GO COCO!!!!

Mystics Fight Hard But Monarchs Rise in OT

The Mystics continue to fight hard. And, I will continue to cheer hard. It is the least I can do.

So, we lost 82-86 to the Monarchs in overtime, but we held our on. This lost combined with the Liberty's win over the Shock, leave the Mystics only a half game ahead of Liberty in 4th place. So the next three games are crucial.

In the meantime, I have to give in up to Alana Beard. Not just for the 25 points, 3 assist, 3 steals and 3 rebounds but for the intense 45 minutes worth of play she brought to the court. With Nikki T out of commission with a knee injury, the vet players have had to step up. Alana and Delisha have done it. AB and Delisha, have led this team all season and now is no exception. Well, I have done a tribute to Delisha, she is one of my favorite players and the winner of many highlight awards, but today I am going to honor, AB.


Here are the stats on AB, VERY IMPRESSIVE:

Ranks #5 in the WNBA in Points Per Game(18.5)
Ranks #13 in the WNBA in Free-Throw Percentage(0.836)
Ranks #3 in the WNBA in Steals Per Game(2.03)
Ranks #19 in the WNBA in Blocks Per Game(0.73)
Ranks #4 in the WNBA in Minutes Per Game(35.2)
Ranks #4 in the WNBA in Minutes Played(1055.0)
Ranks #5 in the WNBA in Field Goals Made(197.0)
Ranks #2 in the WNBA in Field Goal Attempts(480.0)
Ranks #17 in the WNBA in Three-Point Field Goals Made(43.0)
Ranks #9 in the WNBA in Three-Point Field Goal Attempts(135.0)
Ranks #9 in the WNBA in Free Throws(117.0)
Ranks #13 in the WNBA in Free Throw Attempts(140.0)
Ranks #3 in the WNBA in Steals(61.0)
Ranks #18 in the WNBA in Blocks(22.0)
Ranks #6 in the WNBA in Points(554.0)
Ranks #14 in the WNBA in Field Goals Per 40 Minutes(7.47)
Ranks #5 in the WNBA in Field-Goal Attempts Per 40 Minutes(18.2)
Ranks #19 in the WNBA in Free Throws Per 40 Minutes(4.44)
Ranks #15 in the WNBA in Steals Per 40 Minutes(2.31)
Ranks #8 in the WNBA in Points Per 40 Minutes(21.0)
Ranks #7 in the WNBA in Total Turnovers(85.0)
Ranks #12 in the WNBA in Total Efficiency Points(461.0)
Ranks #12 in the WNBA in Efficiency Ranking(15.37)
Ranks #6 in the WNBA in Turnovers Per Game(2.83)

Storm Rain on Mystics Parade

This was not a good day for the Mystics. The Storm rained on our winning streak to clinch their Western Conference bid for the 4th place conference playoffs. Congrats to them , but our bid continues on Mystics fall to the Storm 68-91, down 23 points (our worst loss all season.)

First, as a fan, let me say that going from the Staples Center to the Key Arena, was a bit of a let down. Although, I will admit that the smaller venue was more conducive to WBNA basketball, which draws smaller crowds than the NBA. (Damn shame, one more area Women get the shaft.) Second, let me give a big shout our to my cousin, Donna (my mom's 1st cousin, who like her is ready for the season to end so I will blog about something besides basketball) and close family friend, Kathy and her daughters, Gabby and Tamara. Thanks for hanging out with me in Seattle.

Well like I have said about many Mystics win, sometimes it just comes down to who wants it more and brings that passion. Tonight, the team with the passion was the Storm. Sure, I could complain about how Nikki T's reoccuring knee injury had her on the bench most of the game, or how Delisha fouled out of the game, but at the end of the day. The team that showed up in LA was not the same team that showed up in Seattle. I should know, I was there!!!!!

One thing I can say, the Seattle game was a history making night. Hear are some of the highlights: (This ones for my Republican friends, Yes sadly I am still talking to them.)

The Good: AB joins the 2000 point club and Coco gets her 500th rebound. The Bad: Another Storm player makes history playing us, Betty Lenox scores career high 34 points (last time it was Lauren Jackson for 47 points.) The Ugly: Mystics suffer their worst loss all season crashing an embarrasing 23 point deafeat. Damn!!!

Live From The Staples Center......

When you do LA....the only way to do it is big. So, when I realized I would be in LA on business during the Mystics v. Sparks game, I know floor seating was the only way to go. To be honest, I didn't know what to expect. I knew I was in the home of the Lakers, seating in seats that celebs clamoured for during their season, but I was not prepared for how spectacular the Staples Center is as a sports venue. As a fan, I felt I had won a sports fantasy prize.

Compared to the Staples Center, the Verizon Center is like playing in the hood. In the Verizon Center, the courtside seats are like racked folding chairs; in the Staple Center, the courtside seats are leather and plush. In the Verzon Center, the players enjoy the same racked folding chairs that the fans have to deal with, in the Staple Center, the have a leather bench with Sparks name blazed across and wrapped in the team colors. In the Verizon Center, our scoreboard in one step above analog with 4 sides; in the Staples Center the scoreboard is 8 sides of full digital color. I guess you get the point. Now for the game.

Thank you , thank you, thank you Mystics. If being in the Staples Center is a great fan experiences, winning in the Staples Center is the ultimate fan experience. Big thank you to the staff and Sparks fans for not killing me as I loudly cheered by team on to victory. LETS GO MYSTICS!!!!!!!!!

It was a great game and like the Stars game, the Mystics just brought more heart to the game. It was weird seeing Murial Page and Temecka Johnson play for the Sparks, but I bet Sparks fans though it was weird to see Delisha and Nikki T play for us. Well, whatever, we won 80-75.

Now, on to Seattle. I pray we can repeat this win in the Key Center. Everyone meditate on shutting down Lauren Jackson. Peace.

Mystics Shot Past Stars

This was a game of who wanted it more. The answer, the Mystics. We are working to get in the playoffs, while the Stars have already cinched their playoff spot. Passion can be just as important as skill. When Nikki T was out in the 1st Qtr, I worried that we might lack the passion to get the win. But the Mystics did not disappoint. And we move 1 more game closer to the playoffs. Yeah!!!!

Since I wasn't at the game,I just want to pay a little tribute to Nikki Teasley. Some fans have felt that Nikki was nearing the end of her career and have noticed her limited play and decrease in points scored per game. But Nikki is a true leader on the team. She had a particularly tough off season and has battled knee and arm injuries that have left her in constant pain. But she plays, leads and mentors her team. In her own words,

"It's mind over matter, man," Teasley said. "And at this point in time, I have to do my job, and my job is to come out here and play hard and win ballgames, no matter the circumstances."

Ranks #16 in the WNBA in Assists Per Game(3.1)
Ranks #18 in the WNBA in Assists(92.0)
Ranks #18 in the WNBA in Assists Per Turnover(1.59)
Ranks #11 in the WNBA in Assists Per 40 Minutes(5.7)
Nikki T, thank you and keep your head up. We got the Playoffs to get through!!!!

Mystics Soar past Sky

We needed this win. Everything rested on it.

• we needed the Sky to lose
• we needed a win
• we needed to go on the road with aspiration to make playoffs
• it is the last home game for almost a week.

Games like this require leadership, plain and simple. thank god for Delisha, Nikki T and AB. Experience, talent and great teamwork is what wins games for the Mystics. First, we are a shooting team. To win, we must shoot more than 40% from the floor, tonight we shot 45.8%. We need to rebound consistently, tonight we rebounded 34 times. Finally, this is a team sport. Sure Alana Beard averages 18 pts a game but for us to win we need at least 2 other starters to be in double digits. Well, tonight the sun, moon and Sky lined up to deliver a win for the Mystics.

Hey no denying that this was a stellar game for D-Nasty. She gets the Highlight Award. 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Plus, she played for 40 solid minutes. Delisha you did your thing. You go girl!!!

OptiMYSTICS about the Playoffs ... Thanks Liberty

In this season,, we Mystics fans and team have experienced all the emotions, one can have in a season. We have been depressed, hopeful and now, optimistic (optiMYSTICS).

This was the Mystics' game from the beginning. They came out strong and commanded a strong 19-8 lead at the close of the first quarter. In the end, the Mystics played well and the Liberty didn't. Sucks to be a Liberty fan!!!!

Okay. Now for the Main event. The Highlight Award goes to the whole team. Go Mystics for improving shooting and playing fairley consistent defense. FG% 46.9, FT% 81.8, 33 rebounds and only 11 turnovers. We are on are way.

Shock Defeat Mystics...Damn

This game was like watching many Mystics losses on repeat. The story is simple.... no rebounds, only 20 for the entire team, and failure to complete shots, crappy 33.3% FG percentage. This is old news and has yet to be solved.

The only bright spot remains that the bottom 3 teams in the east conference continue to be within a 1/2 game of each other, so a playoff spot is still possible.

Next game....Indiana Fever with Tamika Catchings out with an injury, it will still be a tough game, but we have the talent to win. We have lost 3Xs to Indiana this year, but each have been very close games.

Okay, so now what each of you is waiting for.....the Highlight Award. This was tough, because there was nothing outstanding. In truth. the ladies just did not demonstrate the mental intensity necessary to beat a championship team. Never mind, I choose no one. Let's just focus on the Fever. It would be nice to beat them once this year.

How Lauren Jackson scored 47 points and the Mystics Won

Truth. I have no idea how we won this game. Sure, the Mystics finally posted decent percentages, for once this season (FG% 49.3%, 3FG% 40.9%); three of our starters posted 20+ points (AB-27, MO- 23 and D-Nasty - 22); and finally, we played really solid defense (42 rebounds, the most all season in a single game.)

When you read the papers and reports on this game, they are going to talk about Lauren Jackson and her awesome fade-away jumper that the Mystics could not shut down. This jumper led to an WNBA record for the highest number of points scored in a game (tied with Diana Taurasi a nice honor to share with her friend and oversees teammate). Hey, I am impressed with her 47 points. I could not believe it but as a witness, the girl was on fire.

Now for the highlight award. When I started giving these awards, I wanted to call attention to players that step up to the plate but may not get the play in mainstream media, UNFORTUNATELY NONE OF THE PLAYERS GET MUCH MEDIA PLAY. First, I want to give a special shout out to Nikki Teasley, for an amazing 10 assists. Nikki T's leadership is invaluable to this team. This leadership is never more clear than watching Nikki Blue step to the plate.



Nikki Blue is the Hightlight winner for me. Basically, I give her this for stepping up on defense and holding Sue Bird. Nikki B stayed on her like butter on toast. She could not get a shot off while Nikki was guarding her and it disrupted her passing. Twice, Nikki forced Bird to run the shot clock out. You go girl!!!!!!!

Mystics Rally to Trounce Lynx in Overtime

Based on the following stats, who won the Game, Mystics or Lnyx?

Average Mystics Lynx
FG% 38.0% 48.6%
3FG% 17.6% 50.0%
FT% 76.4% 80.0%
Turnovers 20 32

Rebounds 26 42

Most would say Lynx, but they would be wrong. Despite posting horrible team stats, the Mystics pulled it out in OT against the Lynx and continue to be 1 game back from the 4 position. It is sheer force of will, but these ladies have won 7 of the last 10 games and 4 in a row.

Now, imagine what they could do if they had a decent field goal percentage or improved their perimemter shooting or better yet, tighten up their defense. The Mystics would be unstoppable. Although, I will cut them a break for the

• five who posted double figures Nikki Blue, Delisha Milton Jones, Nakia Sanford, Monique Currie and Alana Beard, and


• the impressive 21 team steals.

Alright, since this was an away game , I wasn't in attendance tonight's highlight award is based on my read of the stats. Tonight's award goes to our one of All-Star Player, Delisha Milton Jones. D-Nasty posted 17 points, 9 rebounds and 6 steals. Plus, she enters prestigeous 3000-point club.

Another Win and the Mystics Move up to 5th Place

Somebody had to win. Thanks God it was the Mystics. I am glad we won the game. I am glad the Mystics came back in the second half with an improved defensive play that allowed them the make up a 14 point deficit. But thank God we were playing a team with almost equally bad FG% and the same 17 turnovers. Good defense by the Mystics in the second half and bad defense by the Comets in the second half, lead to the 65-58 Mystics win.

If the Mystics are going to make it to the playoffs, they have got to focus on improving their shooting percentage, especially when they aren't creating opportunites for additonal shots. In this case, every shot counts.

Before I go to the hightlight award, I would just like to give a big shout out to all the kids at all the camps that came to camp day. As Delisha noted, your energy helped play and important "sixth" man role in the game today. Oh yeah, one more thing....Lisa Mattingly ref #30 was up to her old tricks.

Alright enough.....the highlight award goes to Monique Currie for breaking her cherry with her first Mystics double double, putting up 16 points and 11 rebounds. You go, Mo!!!

Mo and Nikki T preparing their game face for the impending win over the Comets. I took this shot myself.

Mystics Trounce Lynx in Overtime

Over 6,000 screaming Mystics fans, stood on their feet to cheer the Mystics to an overtime victory against the Lynx last night. This victory put the Mystics just one game back from 4th place Chicago Sky and the playoffs. You Go Ladies!!!!!!! Keep your focus, we can do it!!!

This game was a demonstration of classic Mystics play. The win is attributed to sheer intensity of the Mystics and a lackluster performance by the Lynx. On the intesity side, 4 of the 5 Mystic starters pulled in double digits, which is expected as they each saw close to 40 mins of gruelling game time. The Mystics hit a consecutive 27 free throws, making every shot in the 1st and 2nd quarter. Nykia Sanford tied her career high points and brought home a double double with 25 points and 10 rebounds. On the lackluster, Lynx starting guard Lindsey Harding exited game early due to ankle injury, top scorer Seimone Augustus was held at 16 points and the team fumbled for 18 turnovers.

As a fan, I am happy to head to the all star break on a win. We need to relax and enjoy the All-Star game (I know I will!!!), cheer for the East and comeback focused. Come back Wedensday against the Comets ready to earn a playoff spot.

Til Later, there is no doubt that the hightlight goes to Nakia Sanford. Nakia get holdin' down the middle. I am proud of the way you have stepped up after the controversal Chastiy Melvin trade. You are looking good on the big screen.

Do your thing!!!!!

P.S. Just want to give a small shout out to Chastity Melvin for her entrance into the 3,000 club in the Mystics /Sky game on July 7. To bad, it had happen in a game lost to your old team. :)

Mystics Aim for the Stars But Fall Short

There have been few moments in my life, when I have been speechless. When I just don't know what to say... well, this is not one of those times but it is getting close. How many times can I acknowledge the talent on the Mystics team. How many times can I say that the Mystics need to work on their field goal percentage? How many times can I say that we need to develop a perimeter and 3 pt shot plays to accelerate points of the board? In search of this answer, I ask the high school and college ballers that were in my section. Here are some quotes from them..

• "They need work on the outside jumpers, they should focus on getting in the paint"


• "Don't they have that girl who shoots nothin but 3 pt shots"


• "They shooting sucks"


• "shouldn't they be in man-to-man against all those perimeter shots"

As for me, I look to the coaching. The scoring continues to be a problem but with Becky Hammon out, I expected the Mystics to kill on defense and it did not happen. All the talent in the world doesn't work without leadership and strategy.

Okay. on to brighter topics. No Highlight Award tonight. Instead,

Congratulations to Gillian (Goring) Conley and on her recent Wedding.
(Unfortunately, I don't have a good picture. )

The break is just in time to get a few days honeymoon in. Enjoy the break girl!!!!

3 up, 1 back Half a Season Left to Go

I don't want to be a sore loser, but really this game should have been in the bag for the Mystics. If you were at the game, then you know that the Fever came to play with a secret weapon, referee Lisa Mattingly. This combined with the drama queen Tamika Catchings who spent so much time hitting the floor that I thought she was auditioning for the reality series, Punk'd.

Sure there were some moments that just didn't work out. For one, I would love to know what the strategy is with Laurie Koehn. Everyone knows that she is a 3 pt specialist. So today, Tree finally puts her in and while she missed 2 important 3 pt shots, most of the time she was simply ignored by the team. She is standing open and instead AB drives to the hole. On the bright side, she makes the shot, but I just don't get it. While I am no expert, the fans in my section (and behind the bench where I visit occasionally) think we ought to be getting more utility from Laurie. The other big thing the Mystics still need to work on the Field Goal % which is still one of the lowest in the league. So, this game is done. Time to move on with over 7,000 fans in attendance, we know the season is not over.

Now, for the highlight award. Today's award goes to our 2nd year guard who showed grace under pressure and hit a crucial layup that kept the Mystics in the contention to win with a 1:30 left to go. You know who I am talking 'bout

Diva # 2...Nikki BLUE. Sometimes, it is not how much you
score but when you make the points. Hold it down BLUE.

And the Last shall be First...At least for 1 night

The Mystics beat the Shock by 1 point. It was the best game of the season so far.


As a fan, when the season of your favorite team has an 0-8 start, it is easy to become a litte discouraged. You support the team but experience as sense of dread as you watch them defeated time and time again. But that is what I love about sports. It only takes one moment (or in this case 51 seconds) to restore your hope and remind you how great it is to me a fan. The Mystics v. Shocks was a game for fans and in many ways a methaphor for the the entire Mystics season.


The first quarter gave us fans a sense of what this team could really do. From the initial Milton-Jones layup followed by 3 solid blocks to the Gillian Goring layup and the Currie Rebound. This was the team that I knew the Mystics could be. But just as my confidence was building it was tested and by the end of the 3rd Qtr the "bad girls" of basketball lead 52-38.


But in sports it's not over til its over. If I were a sports commentator, it would go a little like this.....


With a 1:12 to go, Nikki Blue sinks a jump shot bringing the score to 60-64. The Shock's Deanna Nolan misses a 3 pt jumper that is rebounded by teammate Plenette Pierson, who goes up for the layup that is blocked by D-Nasty herself. With 48 seconds left to go, Currie is sent to the free throw line where she sinks for 2 (Thank GOD, she missed the last two free throws), which brings the score to 62-64. Swin Cash goes for the layup and is shut down by Nakia Sanford but Cash grabs her on rebound but in a bad pass attempt Nikki Blue goes for the steal, races down court passes to AB who lays up for 2 and the score is tied 64-64, 13 seconds to go and AB draws the foul, shoots 1 and the Mystics pull ahead for the first time since the 2nd Qtr. This is the stuff fan dreams are made of, victory is one defensive play away and we all stand to our feet in support. with 1 second left in the game Nolan goes for the jumper but is blocked by Milton-Jones, who seals the Mystics win against the number 1 seeded Shock. This is why America loves sports. Go Mystics!!!!!


On a side note, Tree took my advice (or read the writing on the wall) and replaced TJ with Monique Currie at the 3 position and the Mystics have been winning ever since.


BTW: In case there was any doubt,

Delisha "DNasty" Milton Jones wins my Highlight Award

Both for her solid play with 19 pts, 7 rebounds and 3 block and for her funky dance moves both before the game (Yeah, I peeped you in the tunnel) and after with the Mayheim. You go girl!!! Get your freak on!!!

Thank God for Pheonix

I feel vindicated. We took down Diana Taurasi and the Mercury twice. That is not luck but talent. The Mercury is the #3 ranked team in the west and the 4th best record overall. And what about the scoring... 106-101, this is NBA scoring but shows that the ladies know how to take it to the hole.

This was clearly the AB - D-Nasty show. With top points of 29, 22 respectively, both ladies shot with authority from the field, each throwing down 3 3-point shots apiece. This is what we expect from our potential all-stars. I am so excited by the this game, I am going to resurrect the highlight award.

Drum roll, please.

The highlight award goes to BERNICE MOSBY for putting up the first double - double in here WNBA Career with an impressive 13 rebounds off the pine and 13 points on the board. Hold it down, Bernice. Represent the rookie class.

1 Win, 9 losses....DAMN!!!

I feel like a broken record.... the Mystics have talent but they don't have the wins to back it up. And Friday against the Sparks was another display of talent accompanied by another loss. Hometown girl Monique Currie shot 20 from the bench and continues to demonstrate amazing ability to push into the paint and make plays happen. Three of the five starters , Nakia Sanford, Delisha Milton Jone and Alana Beard, pulled in double digits scoring 17, 15, and 11 respectively. We had a higher free throw percentage and we matched the Sparks in rebounds, but still a Loss.

I am an optimist but there are are few things that need to be done to turn this thing around. Here are few of my suggestions:

1. Put Laurie Koehn into heavier rotation. Laurie is an decent defensive player with superior outside shooting. She needs to be used more strategically.
2. Develop our big centers - Gillian Goring and the new player - to get more power under the rim.
3. Start Monique Currie to establish an early lead and dominance.
4. Coach Tree needs to tap the teams will and desire to win. He has to motivate them and instill a belief that every game is theirs to lose.

Finallly 1 in the Win Column.

For the last few weeks, I have tried to convince anyone who would listen that although the Mystics were 0-8, the team had the talent to be a championship team. Well tonight, the Mystics proved my point by putting the smackdown on the Mercury trouncing them 86-69.

Take A Look Back......

The last 8 games have been a lesson in perseverance unrewarded. In almost every game, the Mystics would come back from 10 points, 15 points or even Tuesday a whopping 21 points and still lose. And the question on fans minds was " How can you rally that hard, put that much heart in the game and still lose?" I think it was a mystery to everyone, including our new coach "Tree" Rollins how to achieve a win. Well tonight the mystery is solved.

Mystics Bring their Game

This game was won just as much by Mercury error as Mystics skill. On the Mercury error, only Diana Taurasi achieved double digit scoring with a whopping 28 points with Cappie Pondexter, one the WNBA leading scorers, posted a paltry 7 points. On the Mystics skill, the scoring problem was finally addressed, thanks in large part to the 61.9 % 3 point percentage with Nikki Teasley hitting a remarkable 3 of 4 3 point shots (usually not her shot.) The 3 point shot also greatly contributed to three players posted double digits, lead by off the bench player, Monique Currie with 25 (a career high), Alana Beard with 19 and Nikki Teasely with 12.

In the end, it was truly a team effort. Finally, the shit just worked. Thank God!!!!

Special Note on Monique Curry

From 3 pts to 4 pts to 12 pts to 25pts, the controversial "Curry/ Melvin" trade, which cost the Mystics a Head Coach and a solid vet, may be finally paying off. Curry is fast emerging as a critical part of this team. In contrast, Tamera James (Happy Birthday, TJ) has gone from 17 pts to 10 pts to 5 pts to 6 pts. Although, Coach Tree has said that he sees Curry as a option to Tamera's number 3 position, if she doesn't continue her push, she will soon be replaced by the controversial Curry in her spot. This would put Nikki and Alana at the 1 and 2 spot, and Monique at the 3 spot. Hmmm. Seems like a plan to me. Let's see how long it takes Coach Tree to catch on.

Love the Mystics, Hate the Record (0-7)

I am a loyal fan. So dispite my disappointment, or frustration. I support the team. I support Coach Tree and the rest of the coaching staff, but most of all I support the players who are working hard to make a team gel that has been racked with change.

Alright, that is the end of the disclaimer. Now the gloves are off.

Where there are solid imporovements on defense, but offense is is the toliet. Last season, the Mystics rarely played a game when scoring fell below 80 points, helped in large part by consistent outside shooting by Alana Beard, Delisha Milton Jones and Laurie Koehn. This year Delisha's outside shot is shakey (last year, here best to date she averaged 14.6 points a game, this year 11.6), at best, and the only way Laurie could have less playing time is if she wearn't on the team. Although, Tamera James is working hard to bring up the slack, scoring 17 against Indiana at Indiana, it is not enough.

So what is the solution. Focus on plays that get you in the paint, work on the outside shot and never forget your defense lessons.

Melvin Heads for the Sky

Good Luck, Chasity. I will miss u.

The Sky are getting a solid veteran player with a great sense of humor.

There are people in my section who will be glad to see her go, but I will miss her.

I am depressed and the Mystics' loss to the Liberty does not help.

Mystic Gives Game to Monarchs

Tuesday's game against the Monarchs represented all the emotions one person can have in the span of 4 quarters.

First Quarter

What can I say? This was the kind of quarters Mystics fans like me love to see. The Mystics playing solid defense:boxing the Monarchs out of the paint, rebounding and no turnovers. It was like a glimpse into what you know the Mystics are capable of achieving. The quarter ended with a Mystics lead 21-11.

Second Quarter

Have you ever had one of those dreams that was so good you didn't want to wake up? It was so good that even as the world is trying to wake you, in your dream you are fighting to stay asleep. Welcome to the 2nd Qtr. Initially, the Mystics soar to a 14 point lead. I am so happy. Then, I start to wake up. Penicheiro hits a jumpshot and effectively ends my dream. By the end of the first half, the Monarchs has closed the Mystics lead to 5 points.

Third Quarter

Penichero comes out and immediately followed by a quick two point shot by the Mystics' own D-Nasty, with an assist by Chastity. And then, the dream officially turned into a nightmare. The Mystics would not score for almost 4 whole minutes. By the time Nakia scored with 5:29 minutes left in the Qtr, it was to bring the Mystics to a 40-40 tie. The rest of the Qtr was a struggle for the Mystics to tie, while delivering slipping shooting percentage, few rebounds and many turnovers.

Fourth Quarter

If you are like me, you just want the nightmare to end. So I will keep it short. One shot from the floor. Multiple turnovers. Starters in foul trouble. Final score Mystics 52 Monarchs 70. 'Nuff said.

No Highlight Player - I am too depressed to give an award.

Mystics Home Opener is Home Downer

Well Mystics Fans... The good news is that the Mystics kept the players together that pushed us to one of our best seasons. The bad news is that the Mystics brought back the same issues that plagued them last season. Damn!!!

So, positivity first. The best thing and biggest surprise about today's game was Chasity Melvin. Fans are generally divided about Chasity (at least in my section) but I have always supported Chas. Maybe it is because she is at her best when the rest of the team is at their worst. Maybe it is because she has been a solid player for 8 years. Maybe it is because off the court she cracks me up. Maybe it is because my cousin has a crush on her. Whatever it is "I am a fan." Anyway, today she racked up the best stats of either team, bringing in the nights only "double double" with 22 points and 11 rebounds. She also tied here career high free throws made, with an impressive 10 out of 11 shots from the line. We also saw a solid, performance from Delisha Milton Jones, not a surprise. Delisha is one of the most consistent players on the team, also an 8 year vet still posting strong numbers on the court and bringing important leadership to the team.

HIGHLIGHT AWARD - CHASITY MELVIN (Big Surprise)

Okay, let's start with the rant. What can I say, we are fans. We need somebody to blame when we lose and today, there is plenty of complaints to go around. First, as much as I love the Mystics, I wish we could execute a better defense. As a I stated in my first post of the season, I believe this is a championship team, but if we can't consistently execute a stronger defensive, we are sunk. Offensively, the Mystics shot 45.5% to the Sun's 38.8% with about the same number of shots attempted. However, the Sun went to the line 36 times to the Mystics 19 times, which demonstrates a key weakness in the Mystics defensive execution. Second, we have to look at Crystal Robinson. The only Mystics player with time on the board but no points. Again, I had the opportunity to sit behind the bench, and fans kept asking "Richie, why are you sending Crystal in?" The answer, while not what the fans wanted to hear, is simple. Crystal is Richie's "go to" player. She gets him. She continues to be the person he depends on to translate his complex intentions to the rest of the team. Well, her translation may be great, but her execution needs a little work. Finally, I remain consistently frustrated with Richie's unwillingness to put the "newbies" on the floor. In a short 4:43 min on the floor, Bernice shot 100% from the floor and brought in 3 rebounds. I can't wait to see more of her. And I really want to see Gillian Goring (GG to some G-squared to me)get some time. I think a tall, strong center might get our defense on the right track.

After calming down from the lost (I hate losing, especially when you go from a tie to 9 points down in the last minute of the game), I still think this is going to be record breaking year. The Mystics brought a strong offense, even with AB on the injured list, and even against one of the best teams. The Mystics held there own.

****Final Note**** In my preseason post, I listed Rita Williams as my pick, but I really meant to list Bernice Mosby. Anyway, while I knew it was a long shot, I am disappointed to see Megan Vogel didn't make the cut. I saw her with her parents before the game, I think she would have brought a lot of heart to the game. I wish her luck in her professional career and look for her to do big things overseas.

Mystics Veterans Take Charge and Leave Little Room for Newbies

Unlike most fans, I love preseason. I mean the singer forgot the words to the national anthem, even though the words are in bright lights and the game announcer mis-pronounced all the team players names. But still, I love preseason. Preseason is the time to evaluate the team, see if the veterans have stepped up their game or if the newbies can compete in the big league. I also love preseason because it is a time for the fans to decide what kind of team and season we will have. Well, preseason is over and my thoughts are in.....

First, thank god for the Veterans. Although, Alana Beard set out to continue to rest her sore shoulder, the remaining starting five, Nikki Teasley, Nakia Sanford, Chastity Melvin, Delisha Milton-Jones and the ultimate sixth man, Coco Miller. Thanks to this core group plus Laurie Koehn, the Mystics are well on their way to a championship season.

Second, the newbies (at least to the Mystics),Rita Williams(not that new to the Mystics), Teana Williams, Meagan Vogel and Gilian Goring (or as my team mates have look pretty damn good also. Williams had to pinch hit as point guard because Nikki Blue was down with injuries and even with Richie's complicated plays she looked like she had been a Mystics for years (well I guess, it was just like coming home).

Finally, Richie Adubato and the rest of the Mystics management has a tough decision ahead of them. This decision is made tougher by the fact that the salary cap will keep them from the maximum rooster. Well, I don't know Richie's picks but here are mine....

I will start with the "No Duh" Group
1. Alana Beard
2. Nikki Teasley
3. Crystal Robinson
4. Coco Miller
5. Chastity Melvin
6. Delisa Milton-Jones
7. Laurie Koehn - BTW she gets the Highlighted Award for 8 out of 9 3-point shots
8. Nakia Sanford

Now, for the "Tough Decision" Group
9. Nikki Blue (but may be injured)
10. Rita Williams (yes, she should get this spot, finally)
11. Gillian Goring (or G-Squared, Double G or just plain GG)- She blocks, rebounds, shoots and she is 6-7. What's not to love
12. Meagan Vogel (this is a long shot, but Tamara James doesn't have control of her game and the bench is already deep.)

Which means, for my money Tamara James and Teana Miller are out, both are quality players but on this team of proven vets is is tough to find a place.

Final Analysis - The Mystics are headed for the 2007 Championships to celebrate the Mystics 10th Anniversary.

I'm Back from Vacation, Dreaming of Iowa

Well it is official, we will not get a break on the national political scene. Thanks to someones bright idea to move the presidential primaries up to January 2008, we are less than an year away from selecting our party nominee. So, if you care about who will be president...then get you ass to Iowa.

While the national press is focused on Obama and Clinton, the latest Iowa polls favors John Edwards, who we hear almost nothing about from national press. In reality, the national media and their polls are largely hot air. The real race will happen in 4 states; Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

A week after announcing Clinton went to Iowa. She has done this before so she knows how important Iowa will be. Edwards has never left Iowa. If you review the Iowa press, you will find articles on his visits every month for the last year. Obama is planning his 1st trip to Iowa in late Feb. Edwards is leading in the Iowa polls with 25% support, follow by Clinton with 17%. However, when asked who they feel has the best chance at beating Rudy Guiliani, it is Edwards.

You can read the Washington Post and watch the Sunday Morning news shows, but I am going to read the Des Moines Register. I suggest you do the same. Check it out. http://blogs.dmregister.com/?feed=rss2&cat=53