After Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Kate Martin’s Debuts, Impressive Aaliyah Edwards Reflects on WNBA Rookies

The UConn Huskies’ missile has finally launched for the Washington Mystics. Aaliyah Edwards was a starter for the first time in her WNBA career against the Seattle Storm last night. In the 84-75 home loss, she made quite an impact. Something that the rest of the rookies, like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Kate Martin, have also done in their first week in the league. Consequently, the 6th overall pick had some thoughts about one of the greatest WNBA draft classes.

In her post-game conference, Edwards talked about how the 2024 draft class can transform the league. Sharing her thoughts, she said, “I know coming off the draft weekend, we all collectively, we were like we’re going to be able to impact this league like it hasn’t been in the last couple of years. Whether that’s our viewership, whether that’s our energy and our youthness to add to the game.”

The rookie then shared what she was focusing on. She shared, “For me individually, I’m just trying to soak it all in. I’m not really trying to look ahead of what’s to come but just staying in the moment and taking one game at a time. I have great vets and great teammates alongside of me to help me along the way. I’m just trying to bring that same competitive spirit and energy that I brought to the college level to here. I think that the game is gonna grow on its own.”

Aaliyah Edwards was one of the essential players for the Huskies and Geno Auriemma. Looks like she has made the same impact on Eric Thibault after her first two games, where she totaled 12 points for the Mystics. And as a starter, she had more to add to the team.

Aaliyah Edwards shines for Washington

The No. 24 of the Mystics started the second home game of the season for Washington. It is redundant to say that she tried her best to thrash the veteran team of Seattle. Although Storm’s experience got the better of the Mystics, Edwards almost recorded a double-double on Sunday. Adding 9 points and a team-high 11 rebounds to the scoreboard, Aaliyah Edwards, who matched her dominant style with A’ja Wilson, showed her usefulness on both ends of the floor. She also delivered 2 assists, blocked twice, and had a steal for the Mystics.

Although the sun has not shined in Washington yet, they did observe a full house in the St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena. Hence, it is sure that people are coming to boost the confidence in their team. Perhaps it will eventually be one of the reasons for a win for the Mystics. Next, Aaliyah Edwards and Co. will travel to Los Angeles for a battle against the Sparks where the rookie will also go against her college rivals Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson.