How Mystics’ dynamic ‘Kitron’ duo demolished the Sparks originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Washington Mystics are closing in on a return to the playoffs.
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When their postseason spot is secured, it will mark the Mystics’ first playoff appearance in three years. It will not be the last time fans see “Kitron” playing in October.
The dynamic if not dominant duo of Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen on Saturday night powered the Mystics to their eighth win in 10 games, and the franchise’s first season since 2022 with at least 20 victories.
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Citron and Iriafen combined for 40 points and 14 rebounds as the Mystics defeated the slumping Los Angeles Sparks, 80-70, at CareFirst Arena.
Iriafen delivered her eighth game of 2026 with at least 19 points and eight rebounds as she continues to solidify herself as one of the WNBA’s premium young bigs.
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The two-time All-Star has emerged as a dominant rebounder, interior scorer and one-on-one defender.
Citron dropped 21 points on the Sparks — and in what has been a down season for her from beyond the arc, the two-time All-Star sank four 3-pointers.
Even though her 3-point percentage has fallen from 45 percent to 32 percent relative to her rookie season, Citron’s balanced shot diet and ability to draw fouls have allowed her to maintain her scoring efficiency.
Citron is a tenacious defender as well, helping the Mystics ascend to the elite in that respect.
Washington’s 104.4 defensive rating is second in the WNBA. Though the Mystics have been outscored in 2026 and have the league’s second-worst offense by efficiency, that defensive intensity has keyed the Mystics’ hot streak that should push them into the playoffs.
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Of course, it helps to have two All-Stars to build around, for the present and the future.
