Mystics’ Austin and Citron Earn WNBA All-Defensive Honors

Washington Mystics Standouts Earn WNBA All-Defensive Honors

Washington Mystics standouts Shakira Austin and Sonia Citron earned WNBA All-Defensive First Team and Second Team honors, respectively, marking the first time either player has received the league recognition. The selections place the Mystics duo alongside other standout defensive performers across the league, including A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Gabby Williams, and Rhyne Howard.

Austin Sets Single-Season Rebounding Records

After re-signing with the Mystics in the spring, Austin delivered a dominant fifth season that included WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week and Associated Press Player of the Week honors. Her defensive presence under the basket helped her establish new Mystics single-season records with 408 total rebounds and 327 defensive rebounds. Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson praised Austin’s effort and leadership throughout the campaign, marking a full-circle moment after he stated on WNBA draft night in April that he couldn’t imagine the team without her. Austin also finished a close second in the voting for the 2026 WNBA Most Improved Player award.

Citron Reaches Franchise Statistical Milestones

In just her second year, Citron added to her growing résumé by earning her second All-Star selection along with WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week and Associated Press Player of the Week accolades. Across 40 appearances, Citron recorded 151 rebounds, 47 steals, and 25 blocks, according to the Mystics. She became the first guard in franchise history to record at least 150 rebounds, 45 steals, and 25 blocks in a single season, joining a select group as just the 11th guard in WNBA history to hit those statistical marks in a single year. Citron also earned an Olympic gold medal alongside Mystics teammate Kiki Iriafen after defeating France in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.