The Washington Mystics have secured an impressive rookie forward in Kiki Iriafen, who has quickly become a consistent and impactful player for the team. Iriafen stands out as one of the top frontcourt players, delivering strong performances in both scoring and rebounding, comparable to seasoned league stars.
Averaging 12 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, Iriafen is regarded as the third-best rookie behind Paige Bueckers and Sonia Citron. Like Bueckers and Citron, she earned an All-Star selection and represented Team Clark during the recent All-Star weekend.
Before donning her All-Star jersey, the former USC standout made history by recording seven double-doubles in the first half of the season, setting a new franchise record for most rookie double-doubles for the Mystics.
According to Mystics reporter Jenn Hatfield, the previous rookie double-double record was held by Chamique Holdsclaw, a former six-time All-Star, who had six double-doubles in 1999.
Just before the Mystics’ game against Los Angeles on Tuesday, Holdsclaw reached out to congratulate Iriafen on breaking her rookie record. “Chamique Holdsclaw just wants to congratulate you here and me and the Holdsclaw crew for passing me on to the rookie’s double-double record,” Holdsclaw said. “Go hard, have a large part of your season. Let’s go to Kiki!”
In a gesture of respect, Iriafen wore Holdsclaw’s No. 23 jersey for the Mystics.
Fans and former players alike are excited to see how Iriafen’s career develops. Given her dominant rookie season, many believe she has the potential to make a lasting impact on the WNBA.
Fan Take: This milestone highlights the rise of a new star in Kiki Iriafen, energizing the WNBA fanbase with fresh talent and promise. Her success signals growing depth and competitiveness in the league, which is essential for its long-term growth and popularity.
