Shakira Austin finished with a career-high 31 points as the Washington Mystics topped the Portland Fire 105-100 on Sunday to clinch a 2026 WNBA playoffs berth. The fifth-year center added 10 rebounds in the road win at Moda Center, carrying Washington through a gritty comeback.
Washington Fights Back for the Win in Mystics vs Fire
Portland built a 14-point lead early in the second quarter behind sharp outside shooting. Rather than fold, the Mystics answered with an 18-4 run to claw their way back into the game. Still, the Fire held a 70-65 edge entering the fourth.
From there, Austin and rookie Kiki Iriafen took over. Iriafen finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds of her own, while Sonia Citron chipped in 14 points and six assists. Together, they helped Washington outscore Portland 40-30 in the final period. Georgia Amoore then sealed the Mystics vs Fire matchup with two free throws in the closing seconds.
Mystics Secure WNBA Playoffs Berth
The win moves the Washington Mystics to 22-15 on the season. Meanwhile, the Portland Fire dropped to 15-22 despite 27 points and 11 assists from guard Carla Leite. Washington dominated the glass 38-25, a margin that proved decisive down the stretch.
The Mystics next head to the Phoenix Mercury for a Tuesday matchup at 10 PM ET on NBA TV.
