A Healthy Shakira Austin Skyrockets the Mystics’ Ceiling

Shakira Austin’s College Years

Before being drafted third overall by the Mystics in 2022, Shakira Austin had a notable collegiate career, first at the University of Maryland and then at Ole Miss.

At Maryland, she emerged as one of the country’s most underrated centers, showcasing her size, versatility, and defensive prowess. In 2018, Austin earned Big Ten All-Defense honors, ranking among the conference’s top in total rebounds, blocks, and defensive rating. Her growth was evident, and even without All-Defense honors in 2019, she maintained her defensive dominance. Her two years at Ole Miss allowed her to showcase her offensive potential further, solidifying her status as a top prospect for the WNBA.

Shakira Austin’s potential as a WNBA franchise player was undeniable. Her journey from averaging 10 points per game at Maryland to excelling offensively at Ole Miss, where she averaged a career-high 19 points per game and earned 1st Team All-SEC honors in 2021, clearly indicated her future success.

She developed a stronger face-up game, improved her post footwork, and enhanced her ability to score off the dribble, finishing third in the SEC in total points and field goal percentage. By her senior year, Austin had become a key player in Ole Miss’ transition offense, showcasing her ability to run the floor. With aspirations for the WNBA, she had already proven she could be a vital component for a championship future.

Welcome to the WNBA, Shakira!

In 2022, the Washington Mystics made a significant move by selecting Austin as the third overall pick in the WNBA Draft, bringing her back to her hometown.

This homecoming was a special moment for Austin and her fans, setting the stage for a strong rookie season. She started 32 of 36 games, establishing herself as a reliable two-way player down low. Her first double-double came early in her career, just in her second game against the Minnesota Lynx, and she achieved her first 20-point game in a memorable win over the Dallas Wings.

By the end of the season, she had taken six or more shots in 21 games, shooting at least 60% in 11. Despite her promising rookie year, challenges awaited her in the future.

Since her rookie season, Shakira Austin has played in 31 games combined. In 2023, Austin dealt with a recurring hip injury that started in June in a game against the New York Liberty and ultimately resulted in her needing surgery to repair a torn labrum in her left hip in December.

In 2024, she continued to deal with her hip injury and suffered an ankle injury during a game in August against the Seattle Storm. These injuries have not only affected her performance but also her overall well-being. Shakira has refused to let these injuries stop her from being her absolute best on the floor. She spent the beginning of 2025 participating in the Unrivaled League and played well for the Lunar Owls. If her time in Unrivaled is any indication, there is plenty to be optimistic about in DC.

Will Austin Be Healthy in 2025?

During her time in Unrivaled, Shakira averaged 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, leading the team to a league-best 13-1 record.

Austin’s performance in the Owls’ lone playoff game was a testament to her potential. During the Unrivaled season, she reminded us that she is still the same player the Mystics selected in 2022, with the potential to be one of the most impactful and versatile bigs in the WNBA. She held her own against the very best of the business and gave us all a taste of what could be in store for her in 2025— a future sure to excite all WNBA fans.

Shakira Austin aims for good health in 2025, which is crucial for the Mystics and their fans.

To win another WNBA championship, Washington will need Austin, veteran leadership from Brittney Sykes and Stefanie Dolson, growth from Edwards, and reliable production from its rookies. Austin’s dedication to her health, teammates, and the Mystics organization inspires.

If she stays healthy, both Washington and Austin can reach new heights.