Mystics' Currie Focuses On Performing Consistently

Consistency has always been Monique Currie's Achilles' heel. A two-time all-American at Duke who has a nose for the net, Currie can be an imposing force. The Washington Mystics small forward is patient on the floor and adept at creating offensive space for herself and for teammates. But despite her talent and potential, for every strong performance there has often been a corresponding weak one.

Throughout her first three seasons in the WNBA, Currie developed a reputation for being a streaky player. For example: Last June 6 she put up an anemic seven points in 32 minutes against San Antonio. In the Mystics' next game two days later, she racked up a career-high 28 points in 33 minutes against Connecticut. After averaging 20 points over three games in late June, she tailed off, scoring in double digits in just four of the next 10 games.

This season, Currie arrived at training camp determined to end the roller coaster ride.

"I know in order for the Mystics to be successful I need to be a consistent presence on the court," Currie said. "I want to take responsibility for myself so that they'll know what they're going to get day in and day out from me."

Currie's renewed dedication immediately caught the attention of the Mystics' new coaching staff, and the coaches have been impressed with her drive heading into Washington's second and final preseason game against the New York Liberty today at 11:30 a.m. at Verizon Center.

"She's been one of our most consistent players through camp," Coach Julie Plank said. "She's been vocal, she's been helping [rookie] Marissa [Coleman], and she's been making our other wing players better. . . . I'm really challenging her to be more of a defensive stopper in addition to what she brings offensively."

It's likely the Mystics will rely on Currie this season, though it may not be exclusively at one position.

Plank likes to mix and match her combinations, and in the team's first preseason contest against New York, she used Currie and Coleman on the floor at the same time -- at shooting guard and small forward, respectively -- rather than picking one or the other. Currie notched 12 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists while Coleman had seven points and seven rebounds.

That experiment took place without franchise player Alana Beard in the lineup, but Plank said she liked the combination and could use it when Beard is off the floor or serving as the team's point guard.

Regardless of what position she's playing, Currie is eager to prove that she can make the most of her significant role and minutes for the Mystics.

"This is my fourth season. I'm almost a vet, I'm basically a vet on this team," Currie said. "I have a home here with this team, and I know I can really get comfortable and contribute the way I know I'm capable of. I want to prove it."