Kiki Iriafen Makes WNBA History With Paige Bueckers in Latest Announcement originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The WNBA announced the complete list of All-Stars for the 2025 season on Sunday. The list featured returning star players. However, it also showed history being made as three rookies were named part of the All-Star teams. Both top rookies for the Washington Mystics, Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron, were included in this year’s event.
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For the Mystics, it’s the second time in franchise history for rookies to be named an All-Star. The last time it happened was in 1999, which was the first time the event was held. It’s also the second time this has happened in the league.
Iriafen is averaging 12.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists through her first 18 games. She’s knocking down 45.9% of her shots from the field. Citron, on the other hand, is averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and two steals, while making 38% shooting from deep.
Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen catches a long pass as Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers defend.Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
However, the Mystics’ rookies aren’t the only ones to make it to the All-Star game. No. 1 pick Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings also made it to the final roster, the WNBA announced.
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Together, the trio made history as the only three rookies to make the All-Star game since 2011.
“For the first time since 2011, 3 rookies will be playing in the All-Star game together ⭐️” the WNBA posted. “This is just the 5th time in league history that 3 or more rookies have been named All-Stars in the same season. Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen have stood out in their first year and will suit up in Indiana on July 19th!”
Mystics owner Ted Leonsis showed his support for the rookie stars, who have shown excellence in the first half of the season.
“Congratulations to the @WashMystics Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen! @WNBA All-Stars in their rookie season. Most deserved and most impressive. A testament to their immense talent and hard work as well as the Mystics organization, coaches and staff!” the owner posted on X.
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Fans will see the trio of first-year players on July 19, at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Related: WNBA Announces Mystics News on Tuesday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
