Kiki Iriafen is proving to be unstoppable.
As part of the WNBA’s most exciting rookie duo, the USC forward quickly made it clear she wouldn’t back down. During preseason activities on May 3rd, Iliafen expressed that rookies often become targets, but she was determined to hold her own.
Iliafen and fellow rookie Sonia Citron from Notre Dame are now two months into their debut WNBA season. Iliafen earned Rookie of the Month honors in May, while Citron is the second-leading rookie scorer, averaging over 14 points per game. Both were recently selected for their first All-Star games. Together with fellow rookie Paige Booker, they form the core of the Washington Mystics roster. Despite preseason predictions placing the Mystics near the bottom in 2025, Iliafen and Citron have been pivotal to the team’s promising playoff push.
There were significant expectations for both players. During the pre-draft process in New York City, Citron quickly formed a strong chemistry with her team. Mystic head coach Sidney Johnson said, “They clicked quickly. The team’s focus is first, shaped by their personalities and underpinned by their program.”
Johnson noted that Iliafen, Citron, and fellow first-round pick Georgia Amoore sensed that their careers might start in Washington based on the intense pre-draft process. The trio quickly adopted a culture of humility and teamwork. Unfortunately, Amoore’s season ended early due to an ACL injury, leaving Iliafen and Citron as the key rookies.
Their unity is a cornerstone of the Mystics’ success, especially with the strong connection on the court between the two rookies. “We spend a lot of time together,” Iliafen said, noting how quickly their chemistry developed thanks to their selflessness. She emphasized that both want the best for each other.
Iriafen averages 12.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, tied fifth in the league with seven double-doubles. The inside-outside threat of Iliafen and Citron challenges opposing defenses. Citron explained, “When they double Kiki in the paint, I want them to double so that I get open shots. If they’re trying to stop me from shooting, the inside opens up. It’s hard to defend both of us.”
Citron’s selflessness shines through her all-around play. She ranks second among rookies in scoring (14.4 points per game), third in rebounds (4.9), and is tied for fifth in steals (1.0 per game), averaging 35 minutes per game. Dallas Wings coach Chris Cochrans praised her IQ and smooth playing style, noting, “She just plays at her tempo. She won’t rush.”
The ability to control the game pace is crucial, especially for rookies adjusting to the professional level. Both Iliafen and Citron credit slowing down the game as a key to their success. Iliafen said, “Everyone’s faster and stronger, but I try not to speed up and let the game flow. Coaches always say, ‘Slow is professional,’ so I try to live by that.”
Turning the theory into practice takes experience. Iliafen focuses on training and watching game film daily to improve and monitor when she speeds up.
Their dedication to film study and attention to detail impressed the coaches. Johnson praised, “Sonia and Kiki have talent, but it’s their professionalism and habits that elevate them. They come early, stay late, absorb coaching, and soak up information like sponges.”
Both players were high school All-Americans before joining prestigious college programs and have learned from veteran teammates in the league. Citron credits veterans Brittany Sykes and Stephanie Dolson for mentorship. “Slim has helped me with strategy and mental toughness on and off the court, especially after big wins or losses.”
Iriafen listens closely to Dolson, a 12-year league veteran, who offers advice on offense, defense, and navigating league trends. Iliafen appreciates Dolson as a de facto coach on the sidelines, helping her transition to the professional game.
While veteran support is invaluable, Iliafen and Citron’s maturity stands out to teammates. Second-year player Aaliyah Edwards said their confidence makes them fearless competitors who just go out and play, something unexpected from rookies and crucial to the team’s success.
For Citron, the key to their achievements is simple: “We know we were drafted to play our strengths, but we’re not perfect. Our coaches just want us to play hard, improve daily, and enjoy the game.”
Playing with joy is clear in their performances, delighting Mystics fans along the way.
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Fan Take: This rookie duo’s impact shows the exciting future of the WNBA, blending talent with maturity and teamwork. Their story reinforces how the next generation is elevating the league’s competitiveness and appeal, promising more thrilling basketball ahead.
