Mystics Rookie Recognized by Former 6-Time WNBA All-Star on Tuesday

Mystics Rookie Recognized by Former 6-Time WNBA All-Star on Tuesday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Washington Mystics secured one of the best rookies in Kiki Iriafen. The forward's presence and contributions have been consistent for the Mystics. Iriafen is one of the most dominating frontcourt players, scoring and rebounding like an established star in the league.

Averaging 12 points and 8.3 rebounds, Iriafen is considered to be the third-best rookie after Paige Bueckers and Sonia Citron. Like Bueckers and Citron, the starting forward was also named an All-Star and played for Team Clark over the weekend.

Before she suited up for the All-Star game, the former USC star made history with her scoring and rebounding. She recorded seven double-doubles in the first half of the season. With that achievement, Iriafen broke the franchise record for the most rookie double-doubles for the Mystics.

According to Mystics reporter Jenn Hatfield, the previous record for rookie double-doubles was held by Chamique Holdsclaw. The former six-time All-Star had six double-doubles in 1999.

Before the Mystics' game against the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday, Holdsclaw had a message to Iriafen, congratulating her on the feat.

"Chamique Holdsclaw here and me and the Holdsclaw crew just want to say congratulations for passing me for the rookie double-double record," the legend said. "Good luck and have a great rest of your season. Go Kiki!"

Iriafen returned the favor by wearing Holdsclaw's No. 23 jersey for the Mystics.

Past 🤝 Present pic.twitter.com/NhC9ZuGYa4

— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) July 22, 2025

Fans and former stars are looking forward to how Iriafen's career will pan out. Based on her strong rookie campaign, many expect her to have a lasting impact in the WNBA.

Related: Mystics' Kiki Iriafen Makes History on Sunday vs. Storm

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.