In just her first month as a professional, Nigerian-American basketball sensation Kiki Iriafen is already rewriting the history books.
The 20-year-old Washington Mystics forward has been named the WNBA’s Kia Rookie of the Month for May 2025, becoming the first player in Mystics franchise history to receive the honor.
Drafted fourth overall in April, Iriafen’s transition from college standout to pro star has been nothing short of electric.
In her debut month, she averaged 13.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and shot 47.4% from the field across seven games—ranking third among rookies in scoring, first in rebounding, and fourth overall in the entire league for rebounds per game.
Between May 18 and 25, Iriafen delivered four consecutive double-doubles, joining elite company—only Natalie Williams (1999) has matched that feat among rookies in WNBA history.
She also became the fastest Mystics rookie ever to reach both 50 points and 50 rebounds.
Her current season averages—14.6 points and 10 rebounds per game on 51.7% shooting—place her in rare company.
Not since Tina Charles in 2010 has a rookie averaged over 12 points and 10 rebounds on better than 47% shooting in their first month.
The last time a Mystics player hit that mark was Crystal Langhorne, 15 years ago.
A Journey of Excellence
Born Okikiola Iriafen, the rising star’s journey began at Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, where she was a two-time Los Angeles Daily News Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-American.
Rated a five-star recruit, she committed to Stanford over top programs like Baylor, UConn, and Notre Dame.
After two seasons developing her game, Iriafen exploded in her junior year at Stanford, averaging 19.4 points and 11.0 rebounds, earning Pac-12 Most Improved Player honors.
She later transferred to USC, returning to her hometown for her final college season.
More Than Just a Game
For Iriafen, getting drafted by the Mystics wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was deeply symbolic.
“When I heard my name at the draft, it wasn’t just about basketball,” she said. “It was about culture, about community, and about showing young girls—especially from places like Nigeria or South L.A.—that this is possible.”
Since arriving in Washington, D.C., Iriafen says she’s been welcomed with open arms.
“I’m excited to be here in D.C. I felt so much love from fans and even strangers on the street. People are just so excited about what the Mystics can bring this season, and I’m grateful to be part of that.”
The Future Is Bright
With her combination of skill, poise, and powerful presence, Kiki Iriafen is not only helping the Mystics compete—she’s becoming one of the faces of the WNBA’s future.
