Kiki Iriafen stats: How did Mystics rookie fare in box-office matchup against A'ja Wilson? (May 23, 2025 WNBA Season)

Kiki Iriafen and the Washington Mystics continued a four-game road trip with a game against the Las Vegas Aces on Friday in Sin City. After an upset 76-74 loss to the Golden State Valkyries two nights ago, Iriafen and Co. looked to bounce back with a win against the heavily favored home team.

The rookie helped her team to an 18-16 lead after the first quarter ended. She had four points and held up well against Las Vegas Aces superstar A'ja Wilson.

Iriafen played even better in the second quarter, dropping seven points to push her tally to 11 in 16 minutes. She added seven rebounds and one assist, helping push the Mystics to a surprising 42-33 halftime advantage.

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Kiki Iriafen struggled in the third quarter on offense, making 1 of 5 shots, but her defense remained impressive. Together with Stefanie Dolson, they helped slow down A'ja Wilson The rookie's activity in the paint also caused trouble for the Las Vegas Aces.

The Washington Mystics entered the fourth quarter with a 59-50 lead but struggled once the Aces ramped up the pressure. Jackie Young scored a layup with 11.1 seconds remaining before Jewell Loyd won the game for Las Vegas with a 23-footer.

Kiki Iriafen scored four of the Mystics' 13 fourth-quarter points and played well on both ends against A'ja Wilson.

Player	PTS	REB	AST	STL	BLK	TO	FG	3-PT FG	FT	+/-
Kiki Iriafen	17	13	2	0	0	1	6-14	0-0	5-6	+6

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Kiki Iriafen makes Washington Mystics history

Kiki Iriafen has been a big reason why the Washington Mystics are off to an impressive start. After going 0-12 last to open the 2024 campaign, the Mystics are 4-1 in the first two weeks this year.

The Mystics announced after the third quarter against the Aces:

Iriafen is averaging 14.7 points and 13.0 rebounds in her last three games. She is an efficient scorer (49.6%) who relentlessly chases after rebounds. Washington was a sieve on defense last season, an issue the team corrected with Iriafen patrolling the paint.

Against A'ja Wilson on Friday, the rookie played like a veteran, nearly matching the reigning MVP in production and impact. Iriafen and fellow first-year pro Sonia Citron have given the Mystics a badly-needed boost.

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Michael Macasero brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his coverage of basketball at Sportskeeda with over 18 years of diverse work experience. This includes stints at Convergys, Interpace and RunRepeat.

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Edited by Michael Macasero