The Washington Mystics’ rookie sensation, Kiki Iriafen, is making waves in the WNBA with her stellar performances. In a recent game against the Chicago Sky on July 8, Iriafen tied a franchise rookie record by recording her sixth double-double of the season. With 11 points and 10 rebounds, she matched the mark set by Chamique Holdsclaw in 1999. Her former college coach Lindsay Gottlieb, who now coaches at USC, took to Instagram to express her pride in Iriafen’s achievements.
Iriafen’s consistency and impact on the court have quickly established her as one of the league’s top young stars. With such impressive performances early in her professional career, it’s only a matter of time before she claims the rookie double-double record for herself.
But Iriafen’s accolades don’t stop there. She has already been named to the WNBA All-Star roster in her rookie season, alongside her Mystics teammate Sonia Citron and Dallas Wings’ Paige Bueckers. This marks the first time since 2011 that the All-Star game will feature three rookies, a testament to the talent and impact these young players are making in the league.
The All-Star game is set to take place on Saturday, July 18, in Indianapolis, giving fans an opportunity to see Iriafen showcase her skills on a bigger stage. With her impressive start to the season, there’s no doubt that she will continue to make waves in the WNBA and solidify her place as a rising star in the league.
As Iriafen continues to shine on the court, her future in the WNBA looks incredibly bright. Fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will be keeping a close eye on her as she navigates her rookie season and beyond, eager to see what she accomplishes next on her path to stardom.
