'Things Like That Happen': Sonia Citron Admits Difficulty Coping With Brittney Sykes’ Departure From Mystics

“It was difficult. I remember the first time it happened with Slim (Sykes), it was very difficult,” Citron said. “Kiki and I talked about it. That was our first time dealing with a trade like that. We said, ‘This is definitely not college. This is really the W. Things like that happen.’”

“Our coaches and our teammates did a really good job to let us know, ‘It’s okay to feel how you feel. Don’t try to hide it or sugarcoat. Feel it. It’s okay. But at the same time, know that it’s business and it happens. We still got work to do,’” she explained.

The Mystics needed to manage their core. Moving players around would take a dent on their cohesion, but they want to strike while the iron is hot. The squad has plenty of potential behind their youth and shaping the team while the likes of Sonia Citron are still shaping themselves

Back to the word. Professional. It will be a constant when players are moved around like pieces on a chessboard. But what’s important is that as a professional, it’s expected that you keep going forward, do the job that you are there to do and do it to the best of your ability. The transition proved tough for Sonia Citron, but the hard lessons of reality is what makes it all come together. Her journey has only begun.

Sonia Citron’s Rookie Season Is Historic

Even with the challenges, Sonia Citron has turned her first year into something memorable. The 20-year-old guard has been a consistent presence for the Washington Mystics, showing poise well beyond her age.

Mystics head coach Eric Thibault praised her impact, saying, “She’s fearless. Sonia comes in ready to defend, ready to make the right play, and she doesn’t back down from the moment.”

That ability to stay composed has impressed both her teammates and league observers. For many fans, her rookie year has been viewed as a sign of better days ahead for a Mystics squad in transition. Some even noted online that she “already looks like a cornerstone for the future.”

The Mystics may not be in the thick of the playoff hunt, but Sonia Citron’s progress has been one of the season’s bright spots. And if her first year is any indication, she is on track to become one of the WNBA’s most reliable young stars.