Delle Donne, Ogwumike return from long layoffs

Elena Delle Donne and Chiney Ogwumike will have a major impact on the Washington Mystics’ and Los Angeles Sparks’ playoff chances now that they’re back on the court.

The two finally returned after long layoffs due to injuries.

Delle Donne missed nearly two years with a back injury and COVID-19 precautions. The Washington Mystics’ guard/ forward played in her first game in 682 days Sunday. The twotime MVP last played in the decisive Game 5 of the WNBA Finals in 2019 that gave the Mystics their first championship.

“It was an amazing day just to be out there and competing with my teammates. It’s been quite a whirlwind,” said Delle Donne, who scored 16 points in her return. “You know I’m running out and I was a little bit emotional.”

Delle Donne, 31, said that her back and body felt good and that she will do treatment and see how she feels for the rest of the week.

The Mystics weren’t the only team to finally get healthy this week. Los Angeles welcomed back Ogwumike, who had been out with a knee issue since May 28. She returned against New York on Sunday.

“When I got the green light, I was like, ‘Thank you, Lord.’ I think that’s the best feeling, when something’s gone, you miss it more. I’ve missed it a lot,” the Stanford alum said.

Ogwumike expects to be on a minutes limit for a while.

Mystics 78, Sparks 68: Myisha Hines-Allen scored 19 points and Delle Donne added 18 to help host Washington beat Los Angeles. The Mystics jumped to a 56-23 advantage by halftime behind 18 points from Delle Donne and 14 by HinesAllen. Nneka Ogwumike was 3-for-11 from the field and finished with six points and six rebounds.

Sun 76, Aces 62: Briann January scored a season-high 19 points, DaWanna Bonner added 18 and host Connecticut clinched a playoff berth with a win over Las Vegas in a matchup between the top two WNBA teams.

Lynx 76, Storm 70: Sylvia Fowles scored 29 points and grabbed 20 rebounds to lead Minnesotato a win over visiting Seattle.

Sky 86, Dream 79: Allie Quigley scored 21 points and Candace Parker added 18 to help visiting Chicago beat Atlanta. Quigley was 8-for-11 from the field, including making all three of her 3-point attempts.