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Mystics Rookie Kiki Iriafen Joins Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in WNBA History

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sahil Goswami | Last updated May 24, 2025 7:30 AM ET

The Las Vegas Aces narrowly edged out the Washington Mystics 75-72 in a Friday night thriller. Jewell Loyd drained a clutch corner three with just 1.9 seconds left, sealing the win after the Aces scored the final nine points. Jackie Young led Las Vegas with 25 points, while A’ja Wilson chipped in with a double-double—15 points, 10 rebounds, alongside five assists and three blocks. Despite the loss, the Mystics saw strong performances from Brittney Sykes and rookie forward Kiki Iriafen.

Iriafen continued her stellar start to the season by posting 17 points and 13 rebounds on 7-of-10 shooting. With that performance, she notched her third straight double-double, becoming the first Mystics rookie in franchise history to achieve this feat.

She now joins an elite group of rookies, Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Satou Sabally as the only first-year players since 2020 to record three consecutive double-doubles.

Clark had a streak with 15 points and 13 assists vs. the Sparks, followed by 23 points and 9 rebounds vs. the Sky, and then 30 points and 6 assists against the Mystics. Meanwhile, Angel Reese logged 11 points and 12 rebounds vs. the Liberty, followed by 13 points and 11 boards vs. the Wings, and 16 and 18 vs. the Sparks.

With 17 PTS & 13 REB vs. the Aces, Kiki Iriafen joins Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Satou Sabally as the only rookies since 2020 to record three consecutive double-doubles!

She is also the first Washington Mystics rookie to achieve this feat in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/sbUSFRews2
— WNBA (@WNBA) May 24, 2025

Iriafen is now averaging nearly 14 points per game, shooting 51% from the field, 75% from the free-throw line, and leading the Mystics in rebounds with 10 per night.

KIKI IRIAFEN TONIGHT

• 17 POINTS
• 13 REBOUNDS
• 6/14 FG pic.twitter.com/mklvWOxaYL
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) May 24, 2025

While top picks like Paige Bueckers and Dominique Malonga are still finding their rhythm, Iriafen’s early consistency has turned heads. If she keeps up this level of play, the No. 4 pick could be a serious contender for All-Rookie honors, and maybe even Rookie of the Year.

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

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