David Butler II-Imagn Images

Mystics Rookie Joins Breanna Stewart in WNBA History

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated May 23, 2025 11:10 PM ET

Washington Mystics rookie Kiki Iriafen proved they made the right pick with how she's played in her first three games in the WNBA. Although she's only played three games, the former USC forward has established herself as one of the more well-rounded youngsters.

In her last two games, she snatched two double-doubles with her points and rebounds. At 6-foot-3, the Mystics rookie isn't afraid to get dirty inside the paint and control the glass. Her rebounding has been exceptional, and she leads the team in rebounds with 10 per game.

Because of her strong presence inside, she joined WNBA star Breanna Stewart in a historic list.

The Mystics X account posted on Friday to highlight the 21-year-old forward's achievement. According to the league, Iriafen is the first rookie to collect 30 or more rebounds in their first three games. The last player to do such a feat was Stewart in 2016, when she was with the Seattle Storm.

"Call her Monopoly, because Kiki's been on her board game " the Mystics posted.

Call her Monopoly, because Kiki's been on her board game @capitalone pic.twitter.com/hYiXfTa9fG
— Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) May 23, 2025

Iriafen collected exactly 30 rebounds in her first three games, averaging 13.7 points and 10 rebounds.

In 2016, Stewie had 32 rebounds in her first three games and averaged 10.7 boards. The top pick of the 2016 WNBA draft went on to bag the Rookie of the Year.

For Iriafen, she's always been a tough presence inside. She finished her senior year averaging 8.4 rebounds for USC. During her first three years of college, which were at Stanford, she logged 5.8 boards per game.

Joining Stewart in any historic list could hint at a potential bright career. After all, the current New York Liberty star turned out to be a champion, MVP and a multi-time All-Star.

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

More must-reads: