Washington Mystics pick Nigerian-American Kiki Iriafen in WNBA Draft

Kiki Iriafen, a Nigerian-American basketball forward, has been selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2025 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft by the Washington Mystics.

Iriafen, who starred at both Stanford and USC, joins the Mystics as this year’s fourth-overall pick, bringing a dynamic presence and a polished professionalism that belies her age. Her journey from collegiate stardom to the professional ranks is marked by determination, skill, and a deep sense of identity.

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“I’m excited to be here in D.C.,” Iriafen said. “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,” Iriafen said in an interview with ABC 7 News

Reflecting on her growth, Iriafen highlighted how the evolution of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) shaped her early career.

“I started college when NIL was first introduced, but it was very little,” she said.

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“You are a business; you are a brand, so kind of learning what you need to say, being media trained, all that stuff, I feel like I’ve already gone through that.”

She also expressed excitement about continuing those brand relationships at the professional level.

“Having the opportunity to build relationships with brands in high school and then as a pro, I think it’s such a great opportunity to have NIL. I’m excited to see what it is like being endorsed as a professional,” she added.

Iriafen is focused on making an impact both on and off the court, proudly representing her Nigerian roots and the future of women’s basketball.