On Tuesday, August 22, the Washington Mystics and the Connecticut Sun engaged in a thrilling Eastern Conference showdown that had spectators on the edge of their seats. The Mystics had a tough task ahead of them, facing a team ranking second in the league.?The two teams had previously faced off on July 9, with the Sun coming out on top 92-84. Both teams battled ferociously throughout the highly anticipated game.

However, the Connecticut Sun prevailed with a final score of 68-64 after retaining the advantage in a closely fought encounter. Meanwhile, during the game, a 30-year-old WNBA veteran shoved her elbow into a player’s chest, leading to harsh action from officials.

A 30-year-old-veteran’s aggressive play gets called out

The Connecticut Sun now stand at an incredible 23-10 on the year after their latest win. DeWanna Bonner was essential to the victory, nailing a last-second 3-pointer and vital free throws to secure the win. Alyssa Thomas helped the team with an astounding 22 points and 10 rebounds.

Heading into the second quarter, possession became ever important as the game grew more intense with both teams fighting for control. However, physical contact between Rebecca Allen and Brittany Sykes captured the public’s attention.

In an attempt to get a shot in, Allen drove toward the basket. However, while doing so, her left arm hit Sykes’ chest, sending her off the court.

Players and spectators were both surprised by Allen’s elbow to Sykes’ chest. This prompted the referees to halt play and conduct a thorough investigation.

The level of contact and whether it was classified as above-shoulder were the review’s main concerns. This distinction has important game-related ramifications. Due to their potential to result in significant injuries and interfere with play, above-the-shoulder contact violations are subject to heavy penalties.

Given the circumstances of the play, it was harsh to question the collision as a foul. Unintentionally flailing her arms, Allen accidentally struck Sykes, eliciting an unexpected response from the officials. From what it seems, the shove wasn’t on purpose but rather was the unfortunate result of the game’s frantic pace.

The fact that Allen herself appeared surprised by the contact, indicating a lack of ill purpose, lends further support to this argument. Furthermore, it was a contact caused by a defensive player. Nevertheless, the game must go on.

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The last few minutes of the game saw an exciting change. Tyasha Harris’ 3-pointer gave the Sun a slim lead of 63-57 with only 6:21 remaining in the game. DeWanna Bonner’s clutch 3-pointer broke the tie. This gave her team a 66-63 lead with just 1:37 left in the game.

The Sun win the game

With 34.7 seconds left, the drama escalated further, when Alyssa Thomas had an offensive turnover that resulted in a foul on Shakira Austin. Austin was successful at making the first free shot but failed to make the second.

However, she managed to grab the loose ball with her quick reflexes, giving the Mystics three more chances to tie the game. Despite their best attempts, though, they were unable to make the critical shot.

DeWanna Bonner calmly made two free throws with just 3.5 seconds remaining in the game, effectively sealing the Sun’s spirited triumph. Tiffany Hayes of Connecticut stood out, additionally providing 12 points to the team.

Natasha Cloud, a member of the opposition Washington Mystics, led her team’s offensive with 19 points, 11 of which came during a dominant first quarter. Despite Elena Delle Donne’s hip injury keeping her out of the game, Shakira Austin scored 13 points for the Mystics.

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The Connecticut Sun are now prepared for a difficult three-game road trip that starts with a game against New York. The Washington Mystics, who are now 15-18, will need to reorganize and plan as they fight for victory in the upcoming season.

With momentum being the magic word, perhaps unwarranted examinations are something they can do without.