WASHINGTON (DC News Now) – In a bold move signaling the start of a new chapter for the Washington Mystics, the team announced that they’ve traded Ariel Atkins to the Chicago Sky in exchange for the third overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Additionally, Washington will receive a 2027 first-round pick swap with Chicago and their second-round pick in 2027.
Ariel Atkins was the final member of the Mystics’ 2019 championship team, a two-time WNBA All-Star, and an Olympic gold medalist for Team USA.
Mystics General Manager Jamila Wideman released a statement announcing the trade and highlighting the new direction for the franchise.
“We are building a program to sustain a period of contention during the next era of Mystics Basketball,” Wideman said. “Our ambitious return to prolonged excellence requires time, intention, and difficult decisions. Trading Ariel, a champion and celebrated Mystic, is one of those difficult decisions. In exchange, we are afforded another opportunity to select a young impact player at the top of the draft who can be part of our aspirational future.”
Atkins, drafted by Washington in 2018 as the seventh overall pick, has been a staple of the team for seven seasons. Atkins has put up career averages of 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. Along with her 2019 title, Atkins’ list of accolades includes multiple All-Defensive Team selections.
“Ariel has had an extraordinary impact on the Washington Mystics,” said Wideman. “Her visible achievements, like winning the 2019 Championship and earning Gold with Team USA, are just the tip of the iceberg. But what people may not always see are the quieter moments—her professionalism, leadership, and generosity to her teammates. She’s been embraced by the fans and the DMV community, and we’ll always be cheering for her.”
The Mystics are now focused on their future, with a significant opportunity now on the horizon to snag a top-tier talent in the upcoming draft, as Washington now holds three picks in the top ten.
