Mystics Rookie: Skill Gap & WNBA Mentor

Despite missing the playoffs, the 2025 season was a significant one for Washington Mystics fans, largely due to the impressive debut of Kiki Iriafen. The rookie quickly made an impact, averaging 13.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, earning her a WNBA All-Star nod. Iriafen has continued to excel, currently playing for the Phantom in Unrivaled, where she averages 11 points and 4.6 rebounds in just 9.8 minutes per game.

A Focus on Development

At 22 years old, Iriafen is still developing her game. An area identified for improvement is reducing turnovers, an issue that arose in a recent game against the Lunar Owls, where she turned the ball over twice. Following a travel violation while attacking the rim, WNBA legend Lisa Leslie noted on the broadcast that Iriafen “gets a little too excited and moves both her feet.”

Did You Know? Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron were both named to the 2025 WNBA All-Rookie Team.

Fortunately, Iriafen has access to expert guidance from Lisa Leslie, who is well-equipped to help her refine her game and become more intentional with each movement. Leslie has been actively working with players in Miami, including helping Angel Reese improve her efficiency around the basket last season.

Unrivaled as a Development League

Leslie has also worked with Dominique Malonga, Cameron Brink, and Shakira Austin this season, and Iriafen is scheduled to work with her soon. Unrivaled has quickly gained a reputation for player development, with Azurá Stevens notably improving her three-point shooting after playing there.

While Iriafen currently comes off the bench behind Aliyah Boston, she has demonstrated her ability to make an impact in limited minutes, scoring 14 points and grabbing 8 rebounds in just 9.6 minutes against the Philadelphia Breeze. The environment in Unrivaled, with more space to operate, allows Iriafen to explore her skills in ways that may have been limited with the Mystics.

Expert Insight: The combination of playing alongside a star like Aliyah Boston, receiving direct mentorship from a legend like Lisa Leslie, and competing against top talent in Unrivaled creates a uniquely advantageous developmental environment for Iriafen.

With the added benefit of teammates Sonia Citron and Shakira Austin also participating in Unrivaled, the Washington Mystics are poised for a potentially exciting season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Kiki Iriafen’s stats during her rookie season?

Kiki Iriafen averaged 13.3 points and 8.5 rebounds during the 2025 WNBA season.

Who is currently working with players in Miami?

Lisa Leslie is working with players in Miami, including Kiki Iriafen, Dominique Malonga, Cameron Brink, and Shakira Austin.

What is Unrivaled’s reputation?

Unrivaled has a reputation for helping players improve and add skills to their game, as demonstrated by Azurá Stevens’ improved three-point shooting.

How will Iriafen’s experiences in Unrivaled shape her future contributions to the Washington Mystics?