The Washington Mystics are headed back to the playoffs. Washington erased a 14-point deficit to defeat the Portland Fire on Sunday night, securing the season series 2-1 and clinching its first playoff berth since 2023. At an average age of 24.06 years old, the Mystics also became the youngest playoff team in WNBA history.

Trailing 70-65 entering the fourth quarter, Washington took over. The Mystics scored a franchise-record 40 points in the final frame, shooting 13-of-15 from the field to complete their ninth successful fourth-quarter comeback of the season.

Shakira Austin delivered a career night when it mattered most, finishing with a career-high 31 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks for the first 30-point, 10-rebound performance of her career. Kiki Iriafen added another double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, becoming just the third player in WNBA history to record at least 20 career point-rebound double-doubles before turning 23.

The production ran throughout the lineup. Sonia Citron added 14 points, while Georgia Amoore and Cotie McMahon each scored 13 as five Mystics finished in double figures. Washington also controlled the glass, out-rebounding Portland 38-25 for its WNBA-record 34th game winning the rebounding battle this season.

A historic fourth quarter. A career night. And the youngest playoff team in WNBA history.

Playoff ticket: punched!