From The Banner · Andrew Golden · · 1m 10s
Mystics coach Sydney Johnson’s viral celebrations
Coach Sydney Johnson’s dodgeball celebration went viral after a team win.
In brief
Coach Sydney Johnson’s dodgeball celebration went viral after a team win. Washington Mystics coach Sydney Johnson’s viral dodgeball celebration after beating Seattle Storm led to over 390,000 views on X. Originally reported by The Banner.
Viral dodgeball celebration
Mystics coach Sydney Johnson celebrated a win against Seattle Storm with dodgeballs after a team practice incident went viral.
“It was one of Johnson’s first unique postgame celebrations of the season, which was subsequently posted on the team’s social media accounts.”
Over 390,000 views on X
The dodgeball celebration garnered more than 390,000 views on X alone, sparking interest in Johnson’s celebrations.
“The post garnered more than 390,000 views on X alone.”
Johnson’s coaching philosophy
Johnson wants players and himself to experience joy while achieving high standards in basketball.
“I wanted to coach pros and coach players that wanted the best out of everything and had high standards, but also have joy while they’re doing it.”
Team’s playoff hopes
Mystics need to win Game 2 against Atlanta Dream to avoid elimination and force a winner-take-all Game 3.
“The Mystics need to win Game 2 of their first-round matchup against the Atlanta Dream on Wednesday night to avoid elimination and force a winner-take-all Game 3.”
Origin of celebrations
Johnson created a celebration after being banished from the locker room by player Iriafen following a win in June.
“After a win in June, his players were fired up. Johnson, though, maintained a cool disposition, and the team, specifically Iriafen, wasn’t having it.”
Diverse celebrations
Johnson uses dances like the Scuba dance, Griddy, and Michael Jackson’s Thriller to celebrate wins.
“He’s hit the Scuba dance. He pulled out the Griddy. He’s recreated Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” dance.”
Shakira Austin’s reaction
Austin called Johnson’s celebrations ‘definitely different’ but said it was her favorite.
“Austin joked that his celebrations are ‘definitely different,’ but that night was her favorite of the bunch.”
Next steps for Mystics
Mystics focus on winning Game 2 against Atlanta Dream to avoid elimination in the playoffs.
“We’ll just try to get focus on trying to get there, and then whatever comes after that will come.”
The key point
Washington Mystics coach Sydney Johnson’s viral dodgeball celebration after beating Seattle Storm led to over 390,000 views on X.
