It is a day that was filled with emotions for the Washington Mystics (15-17) as the team inducted Nikki McCray-Penson into the team’s second Hall of Fame class on Sunday, August 20
McCray-Penson, passing away at the age of 51, left a lasting legacy within the Mystics organization, as she played four seasons with the franchise during the 1998-2001 seasons, while helping the franchise to its first playoff appearance in 2000.
Nikki’s resume is an impressive one as she was a three-time WNBA All-Star (1999, 2000, 2001), while also being a two-time Olympic gold medalist as a member of the 1996 and 2000 USA Basketball teams.
McCray-Person left an impact on the Basketball community, as everyone that had ever been in touch with the star having something nice to say about her and the positivity and light that she always brought with her whenever she was on a basketball court.
After what was a beautiful ceremony on the court the Mystics then played an intense game against the Dallas Wings (18-14) falling by the score of 97-84.
In terms of the leaders on the team, Natasha Cloud had herself an impressive game with her 22 points along with three assists and a steal.
There was a milestone moment for Cloud as with her second three-pointer, she was able to pass Alana Beard for third on the Mystics all-time three-pointers made list with 223 made from downtown with the franchise.
Incredibly enough for Cloud, she is 12 points away from passing Nikki McCray (1921) for eighth on the Mystics all-time scoring list.
Also having a strong showing is Brittney Sykes with her 16 points, four rebounds and four assists in the game.
Washington Mystics fans are encouraged to check out the following video featuring thoughts from Head Coach Eric Thibault, Brittney Sykes and Natasha Cloud from after the game versus Dallas…video is compliments of the Washington Mystics:
There were also strong showings by Ariel Atkins and Myisha Hines-Allen. Atkins tallied 13 points, while Hines-Allen rounded out the scoring with six.
The night though was about so much more than just what the result on the scoreboard was. It was about honoring Nikki, it was about taking time out to honor a fellow family member and remembering the legacy that was left behind.
Things are going to get intense for this Washington Mystics team, as they are still in contention for a playoff spot, thankfully the ladies get to stay in the Washington D.C. area and play host to the Connecticut Sun in a game to be played on Tuesday, August 22, with the start of the game scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
For more information on the Washington Mystics fans are encouraged to click on the link seen here: