Most rookies spend their first WNBA season learning the ropes, adjusting to the speed, and trying not to look lost on the court. Sonia Citron? She’s been putting up All-Star numbers and acting like she’s been in the league for years.
The Washington Mystics rookie has turned what many expected to be a rebuilding season into something special, and her fearless approach is a big reason why.
What Makes Citron’s Transition So Smooth?
Speaking with Lisa Leslie on the “Between The Lines” podcast, Citron opened up about her jump to the professional level. The former Notre Dame guard didn’t hesitate to give credit where it’s due.
“I think it’s been smoother than I thought. There are definitely adjustments to be made, and there’s still so much growth to be had,” said the All-Star.
“But I would say it’s been smooth because of the Mystics. It’s because of my coaching staff, my teammates, they have helped me, Kiki [Iriafen], Lucy [Olsen], to be in a comfortable spot where we’re just going out there and playing.”
That comfort level shows in her numbers. In 2025, Citron has averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 46.8% from the field.
Her performances have helped lift the Mystics to seventh place in the standings, which marks positive news for a team currently rebuilding. The guard has also been efficient from beyond the arc, averaging 38.0% on three-pointers.
Mystics rookie Sonia Citron is ready for the three point competition 🍿 pic.twitter.com/JioXouwieZ
— Just Women’s Sports (@justwsports) July 10, 2025
Thanks to her sharp shooting from deep, Citron has also been selected as one of the players competing in the three-point contest during the WNBA All-Star Weekend set to take place in Indianapolis this month.
How Does Citron Compare to Other Top Rookies?
While many expected first overall pick Paige Bueckers to adapt to the league easily, the former UConn superstar struggled early on. That was barely the case for Citron, who became the first rookie of her class to reach 100 points. For Citron, the faith of those around her has been crucial to her success.
“I’m not scared to make mistakes, I’m not afraid of ‘I don’t know what I should be doing’ out there from the beginning,” said Citron. Heading toward her first All-Star game, this rookie season has been nothing short of a dream for the young guard.
The bigger picture tells the story of a franchise transformation. After the Washington Mystics’ disappointing ninth-place finish in 2024-25 and the imminent retirement of team legend Elena Delle Donne, the front office decided to build for the future.
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Making their intentions clear, the Mystics traded star Ariel Atkins away, suggesting the championship window in Washington was closed.
However, the draft picks the Mystics had acquired for the future were ones that gave instant dividends to the team. While their sixth overall pick, Georgia Amoore, was ruled out with an ACL tear at the start of preseason, their other two top picks have been making waves in the WNBA.
Although rookies are expected to take time to settle into the league, Citron and Kiki Iriafen have arrived like they belong. As they have now become only the fourth rookie duo to make the All-Star game, Citron’s fearless mindset explains the reason behind the smooth transition.
As the race for Rookie of the Year heats up between Bueckers, Citron, and Iriafen, the All-Star game on July 19 will serve as another bright stage for the three to compete.
