The Washington Mystics have added more backcourt depth to their roster before the August 7 trade deadline.
Washington acquired guard Jacy Sheldon from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for Aaliyah Edwards and the rights to a 2026 first-round pick, the team announced on August 7.
Both Sheldon (No.5) and Edwards (No.6) were first-round draft picks in the 2024 WNBA draft. The Mystics continue to rebuild after trading Brittney Sykes in exchange for Alysha Clark and a 2026 first-round draft pick on August 5.
Mystics Management
Washington is 13-16 on the season and is tenth in league standings. However, first-year general manager Jamila Wideman is building around the team’s young core.
Sheldon was drafted by the Dallas Wings with the No.5 pick in the 2024 draft but struggled in her rookie season. She was paired alongside Arike Ogunbowale, but it wasn’t an ideal fit for her development.
Wideman expressed the franchise’s excitement for their new point guard. “We are excited to welcome Jacy to the Mystics and think her skill set, energy, and team-first approach will be a great fit for us,” Wideman said.
“She is a competitor and leads through the example of her work ethic. She has built on her solid rookie campaign and demonstrated an ability to shoot the ball and read the game on both ends of the court.”
Washington’s Core
Trade rumors started to swirl around Edwards when ESPN’s Kendra Andrews and Alexa Philippou reported that the Mystics were working to find a trade partner for her.
The former UConn standout’s playtime started to dwindle with the production of a healthy Shakira Austin and the strong performance of Kiki Iriafen.
Washington’s young core shows promise and balance. Austin, Georgia Amoore, Sonia Citron, and Iriafen are the future of the franchise.
Sheldon’s addition could make for another addition to the team’s core. She is averaging 7.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, two assists, and one steal while shooting 41.2% from three.
Despite Washington’s current record, they have a few 2026 first-round picks and could be a potential lottery team.
Connecticut’s Rebuild
Connecticut is in its first year of rebuilding after eight consecutive playoff appearances. The franchise drafted Aneesah Morrow, Saniya Rivers, and Rayah Marshall in the 2025 WNBA draft.
Needless to say, the addition of Edwards is a huge building block for the Sun. She spent her collegiate career playing in Connecticut with UConn. Connecticut general manager Morgan Tuck spoke on the acquisition of Edwards.
“Bringing Aaliyah to the Connecticut Sun is more than just a roster move; it’s a statement about where we’re headed as a franchise,” said Tuck. “Aaliyah is a transformational talent with the mindset and drive that aligns with our vision of building a championship culture.”
“What truly sets her apart is the way she leads, connects, and competes. Aaliyah is the kind of person and player who can help redefine the future of this organization, and we’re ready to build that future together.”
Edwards is averaging six points and 3.3 rebounds while shooting 47.9% from the field. This season, she has played 21 games but has not started any games compared to last season’s 17 starts.
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