Mystics Forward Cites NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo as Inspiration

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 10:46 PM ET

In the WNBA, Shakira Austin of the Washington Mystics is one of the best young forwards. This season, Austin has shown significant improvement with her work on the floor. She has appeared in 21 games, averaging 12.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks.

On Sunday, Austin and the Mystics struggled against the Phoenix Mercury. They suffered an 88-72 loss against one of the best teams in the league. Despite the loss, however, fans saw how good the forward has been for Washington. She finished the game with 20 points, eight rebounds and two blocks in 44.4% shooting from the field.

Following the game, Austin was asked about who inspired her brand of basketball.

Shakira Austin Mentions Giannis Antetokounmpo as Her Basketball Inspiration

After the contest, Austin named NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks as her inspiration. The Mystics forward said that she watches a lot of his highlights on YouTube and tries to model her game after him.

"I watch a lot of YouTube highlights. I watch Giannis, his footwork," Austin said.

Shakira Austin told me that Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid both inspired some of her moves around the rim. However, Jade Melbourne interjected and said that Shakira is a “one of one” .

Head coach Sydney Johnson also jumped in and praised Austin’s growth. pic.twitter.com/YesFRMINAU
— Joshua Valdez (@joshvaldez100) July 28, 2025

Austin continued to break down her game, especially in the post.

"It's more so for me being patient. I have a lot of counters and I use too many, a lot of the times. Now it's just slowing down and using my physicality and my strength to really be on balance when I go up."

Austin has been one of the best players for the Washington franchise this season. With her, the Mystics have been able to secure a 12-13 record, despite having a young core with Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron.

The former No. 3 pick and the Mystics will resume their regular season on Tuesday against the Chicago Sky.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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