WNBA1 hour ago2 minute read

Iriafen and Onyenwere Fuel Mystics Record Season

Kiki Iriafen and Michaela Onyenwere led the Washington Mystics to a record breaking season before a first round playoff exit against the Atlanta Dream.

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Iriafen's Postseason Surge

Kiki Iriafen's second WNBA season came to an end with a first round playoff elimination. The Washington Mystics lost 93-75 to the Atlanta Dream, but the 23 year old forward showed why she is a rising star.

Iriafen finished the final game with 15 points and 16 rebounds. Over the two game series, she averaged 15 points and 15 rebounds. In Game 1, despite foul trouble limiting her to 23 minutes, she scored 15 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, including nine offensive rebounds to tie a franchise record.

Her 30 total rebounds over the two games represent the second most by any player in their first two WNBA playoff games.

The Nigerian Connection in DC

Iriafen has developed a strong connection with teammate Michaela Onyenwere. Both players are Nigerian American and share a deep pride in their heritage.

Onyenwere, the 2021 WNBA Rookie of the Year, joined Washington this year. At 26, she was the oldest player on the league's youngest roster. Her leadership earned her the nickname "Coach Mic" from her teammates.

"My Nigerian heritage has been something that I've always wanted to promote," Iriafen said. The forward also noted her parents' motto, "Naija no dey carry last," which inspires her to strive for success in everything she does.

This partnership helped Washington improve from 16 wins in 2025 to a franchise record 28 wins this season, marking their first playoff appearance since 2023.

Building for the Future

The Mystics have built a promising young core. Alongside Iriafen, guard Sonia Citron played a major role. Citron, selected in the same 2025 draft, led Washington in playoff scoring with 25 points in each game against Atlanta.

Iriafen, who averaged 15.3 points and 9.5 rebounds during the regular season, also set a franchise record with 23 double doubles this year. Her performance earned her a second consecutive All Star selection and a spot on the USA World Cup roster.

Head coach Sydney Johnson expressed pride in the young group despite the early exit. "I am excited to take this first step forward with Kiki and Sonia and our whole group," Johnson said.

What it means for the next game

New York Liberty at Atlanta Dream (WNBA, Wed, 07 Oct): Atlanta Dream win 55%, New York Liberty win 45%; projected score Atlanta Dream 89, New York Liberty 86. Our safest pick: Liberty +10.5.

Atlanta Dream at New York Liberty (WNBA, Fri, 09 Oct): New York Liberty win 32%, Atlanta Dream win 68%; projected score New York Liberty 81, Atlanta Dream 85. Our safest pick: Dream +2.5.