Shock Fights Back But Falls Short Against Mystics

The Tulsa Shock put together an impressive fourth quarter, but still fell short Saturday against the Washington Mystics by a final of 64-61.

Tulsa outscored Washington 18-8 in the final quarter, including a 14-0 run, but failed to score in the final 1:23 of the game in the team's third straight loss.

The Shock forced 32 Washington turnovers, but it was Crystal Langhorne's final free throw with 4.1 seconds remaining put the Mystics up 64-61 and the Washington defense prevented Tulsa from getting off a shot in the final ticks of regulation.

The two teams were tied a6 16 points apiece after the first quarter of play but the Mystics got things going to lead 40-34 at the break.

Washington opened the third on a 14-4 run to go up 54-38 by the end of the third as the Shock was only shooting 25 percent.

After Ajavon's fast break layup put the Mystics ahead 58-43 early in the fourth quarter, the Shock stormed back with their 14-0 run. Following an exchange of baskets that kept Washington ahead, Monique Currie's jump shot and Langhorne's free throw extended the Mystics lead to 63-59 with 1:36 remaining.

Glory Johnson's layup with 1:23 on the clock pulled the Shock closer at 63-61, but was the team's last basket of the game. Langhorne added another free throw with 4.1 seconds remaining, putting the Mystics up by three. After a quick timeout, Washington's defense closed out the game.

The Mystics were led by Matee Ajavon's 19 points while Langhorne contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Tulsa returns to the hardwood Tuesday May, 29 on the road at Los Angeles. Tipoff is set for 9:30 p.m. CST.