If you didn’t know her name before May 2025, you definitely do now. Kiki Iriafen has arrived—and she’s already making WNBA history.
The Nigerian-American Washington Mystics forward has just been crowned the Kia WNBA Rookie of the Month, making her the first-ever Mystics player to receive the honour. Let’s be clear: she didn’t just show up—she dominated.
A Rookie Stat Line That Reads Like a Veteran’s Résumé
Across seven games in her first month as a pro, Iriafen averaged 13.9 points and 10.1 rebounds, while shooting an impressive 47.4% from the field. That performance ranked her:
- 3rd among all rookies in scoring
- 1st in rebounding
- 4th in the entire league for rebounds per game
Oh, and she didn’t stop there. From May 18 to 25, Iriafen posted four consecutive double-doubles, a feat that only one other rookie—Natalie Williams in 1999—has managed in WNBA history.
To top it off, she became the fastest Mystics rookie ever to hit 50 points and 50 rebounds. Not even the franchise’s greats moved that quickly.
Joining the Legends—In Just One Month
Let’s talk context. The last WNBA rookie to average at least 12 points, 10 rebounds, and over 47% shooting in their opening month? That would be Tina Charles in 2010.
The last time any Mystics player hit that mark? Crystal Langhorne, fifteen years ago.
In short, Iriafen’s doing what hasn’t been done in over a decade—on both league and franchise levels. And she’s doing it straight out the gate.
What’s Next for Iriafen?
Currently averaging 14.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 51.7% shooting in just 28.3 minutes per game, the 2025 No. 4 overall pick isn’t just meeting expectations—she’s exceeding them with poise, power, and precision.
