Mystics' Shakira Austin is healthy at last and powering Washington's playoff push

The Washington Mystics faced low expectations entering 2026.Still in the early stages of a rebuild, the youthful Mystics hoped that fifth-year big Shakira Austin would shake off some injury woes as All-Stars Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen continued to grow. Another lottery pick in the loaded 2027 draft wouldn't necessarily have been frowned upon -- and after general manager Jamila Wideman was dismissed in April, questions about Washington's direction seemed legitimate.The Mystics have forcefully answered those questions.MORE: Washington Mystics make stunning leap to No. 2 in latest WNBA power rankingsWashington enters Wednesday night's game against the Dallas Wings with a 16-12 record. Buoyed by an elite defense, the Mystics have the eighth and final playoff spot, with an impressive five-ga