cover-image

We are diving into the 2022 season, remembering moments from our shifty rookie from Japan, in this Mystics Season Rewind – Rui Machida Edition

Machida’s 2022 Season Recap

On April 25, Mystics Head Coach & General Manager Mike Thibault held a press conference to introduce Rui Machida as the newest member of the team. Rui had a strong on-court presence in the third game of the season, scoring 9 points in win against the Las Vegas Aces. With Natasha Cloud out in COVID protocols, Rui started the game and challenged the Aces defense by dishing out 4 assists. Just a few days later continued her prowess with another 7 assists against Dallas.

A @machirui dime is something we love LOVE to see!#Mystics25 // #TogetherDC pic.twitter.com/cBOq1q66BI

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) May 9, 2022

Rui had several moments where she shined this season, and her assists were a big part of her success on the court. She averaged 2.6 assists per game and 31.0% from the field. Rui was all over the floor and even racked up 4 or more rebounds in a few games this season. In our end of the season press release, Rui stated “Every player in the WNBA is top notch and I understand why it’s the best league in the world. I gained a valuable experience.” Even against the best players in the world, Rui delivered all season long to help the Mystics make it to the WNBA Playoffs.

Rui Machida Off-the-Court

While here in Washington D.C., Machida shared her Japanese culture with the team and the Mystics family. Off the court, Rui was welcomed into the home of Japanese Ambassador Tomita. During her visit, Rui gifted her Mystics’ Explorer jersey to the Ambassador as a symbol of good faith and to thank the embassy for their support. Rui represented her country and the Mystics in an effort to share her experiences playing basketball in the WNBA. Through her massive international following Rui was able to introduce the Mystics to a whole new fanbase across the globe. Several fans even flew all the way from Japan to see her play in the best league in women’s basketball.

Need something to brighten your day??

Watch @machirui try some popular American snacks!

🎟️ https://t.co/JNXC9oAXMz #Mystics25 // #TogetherDC pic.twitter.com/MauEc0piQy

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) July 16, 2022

In addition to introducing Japanese fans to the Mystics, Rui continued to share her county’s history and traditions with her new fans here in D.C. During the first Japanese Heritage Game at Entertainment & Sports Arena, we introduced fans to traditions like the Japanese Wishing Wall and brought the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games torch for a photo op. Rui’s impact on the city has extended beyond the game of basketball and who knows what she has in store next.

Rewinding to our first Japanese Heritage Day ⏮🎥#Mystics25 // #TogetherDC pic.twitter.com/XkRbpqZRK5

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) July 23, 2022

Rui’s Best Moments of the Season

Against the Chicago Sky, Rui dished out a career-high, 9 assists in 21 mins of play.

【今日のハイ瑠唯ト@machirui🎥】#町田瑠唯選手はスカイ戦に21分16秒出場し、スリーポイント1本成功含むFG2/4で5得点、9アシスト、2リバウンドを記録。ミスティックスは91-82と敗れました。#Mystics25｜@WashMystics pic.twitter.com/eWo9Vbj4Te

— ワシントンウィザーズ 🏀 (@washwizardsjp) June 6, 2022

Rui Machida was able to connect with her teammate on a personal level by trying different American snacks suggested by her teammates.

.@machirui brought some delicious Japanese snacks to practice today.

…and her “English Teacher” @Mooks_22 helped her pass them out 🤝#Mystics25 // #TogetherDC pic.twitter.com/oe7fHgyt60

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) May 3, 2022

During the season, Rui had a chance to visit the Japanese Ambassador’s home where she met the Ambassador Tomita.

A true honor to be invited to @JapanEmbDC Ambassador, Koji Tomita’s home today 💙#Mystics25 // @machirui pic.twitter.com/Su9hesTRSm

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) August 9, 2022

Rui helped host and inspire the Washington Mystics’ first Japanese Heritage Game.

Thank you for celebrating #JapaneseHeritageDay with us!#TogetherDC // @JapanEmbDC pic.twitter.com/2gNnABJJox

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) July 17, 2022

Related News

Mystics Season Rewind: Rui Machida

Monumental Sports & Entertainment Announces a Partnership with CarMax for Washington Wizards, Mystics and Capital One Arena

MYSTICS UNVEIL OPENING NIGHT ACTIVITIES

MYSTICS ANNOUNCE TRAINING CAMP ROSTER