Yesterday, I shared my goals for the Washington Wizards in 2026. Today, let’s focus on what I hope the Washington Mystics accomplish next year.
Here’s what I’m looking forward to from the Mystics:
Adding a high-potential free agent — This is something I doubt the current management will pursue, and it doesn’t seem to be their plan. However, the Mystics have a history of making such moves. Even though Ariel Atkins was traded, the team still started the 2025 season with a returning player from 2024. With the expected changes in the collective bargaining agreement, many players across the league are likely to see significant salary increases, possibly over $1 million annually. The big question is who the Mystics will target as their standout free agent.
Sonia Citron or Kiki Iliafen making the All-WNBA team — If the Mystics reach the playoffs in 2026, either Citron or Iliafen will probably be one of the top performers in the league. They already showed strong potential last season, although their team struggled with a 10-game losing streak after an initially promising start.
Shakira Austin selected for the All-Star team — Austin has an impressive track record, including winning gold medals at the 2018 FIBA World Cup and the recent FIBA 3×3 Women’s America Cup with Team USA. She has yet to make her own All-Star team, but if the Mystics reach the playoffs next year, she’s almost certain to be included. Austin will become a restricted free agent in 2026 and will likely be protected from any expansion draft, with Washington expected to match any offers she might receive.
The Mystics become at least a mid-tier team driven by young talent from start to finish — The 2025 Mystics were expected to make the playoffs and use that success to build momentum into 2026. Instead, they might follow the Wizards’ path of ongoing rebuilding, which many WNBA teams experience. While the league may stay at 12 teams for now, an expansion to 18 teams by 2030 could risk leaving the Mystics as a “have-not” franchise, much like they were for much of their history prior to the Mike Thibault era.
What are your expectations for the Mystics in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Fan Take: This outlook is crucial for WNBA fans because it highlights the potential growth and challenges for a key franchise. How the Mystics develop their young talent and handle free agency could shape the competitive landscape and excitement of the league in the coming years.
