The Washington Mystics have traded two-time All-Star guard Ariel Atkins to the Chicago Sky, acquiring the third pick in the 2025 WNBA draft and rights to swap future first-round picks. The move marks a significant shift in the team’s rebuilding plan after missing the playoffs last season.
Mystics General Manager Jamila Wideman described the trade as a “clear reflection of our commitment to build toward a new era.” Wideman expressed optimism about the league’s future, stating that teams need to position themselves to attract top talent. The deal is seen as a crucial step in the Mystics’ rebuild, allowing them to potentially draft multiple first-round players in the same year.
The Sky, led by General Manager Jeff Pagliocca, appear well-positioned for a return to the playoffs in 2025. Pagliocca praised Atkins, calling her an “excellent role model” and a threat on both ends of the floor. The trade marks the first major move under the new front office, which was established by Wideman and Coach Sydney Johnson earlier this month.
Atkins, who averaged 13.4 points per game over her career, joins a growing list of talented players acquired by Chicago, including former franchise stalwart Courtney Vandersloot and newcomer Kia Nurse. The trade also brings an end to Atkins’ seven-year tenure with the Mystics, which was marked by one WNBA championship in 2019.
With the Mystics now holding Nos. 3, 4, and 6 picks in this year’s draft, Wideman emphasized her team’s commitment to building a sustainable contender. The organization has signed several players to training camp contracts, including Emily Engstler, Sug Sutton, and Taylor Soule, but remains active in pursuit of long-term benefits.
Atkins’ impending free agency and anticipated salary bumps in 2026 may have influenced the trade. Under current collective bargaining agreement rules, she would become a core player by Chicago after this season. The deal sets a new trajectory for the Mystics, which are determined to build an organization capable of sustained contention.
Source: https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/43987369/washington-mystics-trade-ariel-atkins-chicago-sky-third-pick-wnba-draft