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Julie Vanloo · Tasked with conquering a team boasting an already-proven track record of making life difficult for first-year guards, Julie Vanloo would’ve been understood, had she struggled to find her way against the Connecticut Sun’s top-ranked defense. Instead, Vanloo utilized her WNBA career’s second game to show why she’s already one of the league's most intriguing night-to-night highlight threats. Noticeably amped before even retrieving a pass, Vanloo puts immediate pressure on Tyasha Harris in a split through Connecticut’s pick-and-roll coverage, advancing her dribble ahead with a trio of orange jerseys closing in. With the defense’s code cracked and the rim’s path officially uncovered, Vanloo proceeds with a predictably-crafty underhand scoop, extending the Washington Mystics’ second quarter edge. Vanloo’s efforts helped Washington compete tirelessly against the elite Sun, even leading by seven in the fourth period during a competitive loss on May 17, 2024. Among the evening's leading scorers, Vanloo tossed in 12 points (on five-of-nine shooting), four rebounds, eight assists, and one 3-pointer during an inspiring showcase. · State of Mint