Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards is expected to make her season debut on Sunday during the team’s matchup against the Phoenix Mercury in Arizona. Edwards had missed the team’s first four games due to a back injury but has now been cleared to return, adding depth as the Mystics aim to improve their 2-2 record.
Although Edwards is unlikely to start, she is listed as probable and could contribute off the bench. The Mystics are currently in seventh place in the standings after early victories against the Atlanta Dream and Connecticut Sun. Recent losses to the Las Vegas Aces and Dallas Wings have put pressure on the team to regain momentum during this four-game road trip before returning home to face the Indiana Fever.
Behind the Scenes of Edwards’ Recovery and Team Injuries
Edwards sustained her back injury during the preseason and was initially expected to be sidelined until June. However, medical staff have cleared her earlier than anticipated, opening the door for a limited role in Sunday’s game. Her coach will make the final decision on her playing time as her full fitness remains a work in progress.
The timing of Edwards’ return is crucial, as the Mystics have been dealing with significant injury setbacks. Key players Shakira Austin and Brittney Sykes were both injured during the season opener and are expected to miss the upcoming games, increasing the importance of Edwards’ availability.
Support and Recognition for Rising Rookie Talent Amidst Edwards’ Absence
This season, the Mystics benefited from having high draft picks, selecting promising players like Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and Georgia Amoore in the 2025 WNBA Draft. While Amoore is out for the season with an ACL injury, both Citron and Iriafen have become vital contributors. Especially in Edwards’ absence, Kiki Iriafen has emerged as a key leader for the team.
Iriafen distinguished herself by becoming one of only a few rookies—including Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, and Satou Sabally—to record three consecutive double-doubles. Edwards praised Iriafen’s achievement on Instagram, writing,
“Let ’em know,” the forward wrote, sharing a post of Iriafen’s record on Instagram.
Iriafen, alongside Citron, has played an important role in securing the Mystics’ two wins this season, delivering a double-double in three of her four games played so far.
Looking Ahead: What Edwards’ Return Means for the Mystics
The return of Aaliyah Edwards could provide a much-needed boost for a Mystics squad seeking consistency as they approach the midpoint of their campaign. With injuries already impacting key players, her presence on the court—even in a limited capacity—offers a hopeful sign for the team’s prospects.
Sunday’s game against the Phoenix Mercury will not only test Edwards’ recovery but also offer insight into how the Mystics will manage their roster amid ongoing challenges. As the schedule progresses, how Edwards reintegrates could shape the team’s ability to climb the standings and compete more strongly at home and on the road.