Kingston, Ontario’s Aaliyah Edwards made history by being selected 6th overall in the 2023 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics. She is the first-ever Kingstonian to be drafted into the WNBA. Edwards, a Senior at the University of Connecticut, had an impressive college career with the Huskies, averaging 17.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. She helped lead the team to three Final Four appearances and one national championship game during her four years at UConn. In addition to her WNBA draft selection, Edwards will also represent Team Canada at the upcoming Paris Olympics, marking her second appearance on the Olympic stage.
The 2023 WNBA Draft was a significant event, showcasing a talented field of players such as Caitlin Clark and Aaliyah Edwards. Edwards’ selection by the Washington Mystics was a highlight of the night, as she was recognized for her exceptional performance throughout her college career. Her achievements during the 2023-24 season at UConn earned her numerous accolades, including spots on the Big East first team, USBWA Second Team All-America, WCBA All-America, Wooden Award All-America, AP All-America honorable mention, and NCAA Tournament Regional All-Tournament Team. Edwards’ success at the collegiate level has now paved the way for her professional career in the WNBA.
Joining the Washington Mystics, Edwards will be part of a team that finished 7th in the league last season with a record of 19-21. The Mystics will be without veteran forward Elena Delle Donne, who is taking a year off from the league due to injury. Edwards will bring her talent, skills, and experience to help the Mystics improve their performance in the upcoming season. The team’s first game is scheduled for May 14th against the New York Liberty, where fans will have the opportunity to see Edwards in action as she begins her WNBA career.
Aaliyah Edwards’ journey from Kingston, Ontario, to the WNBA is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent as a basketball player. She has overcome challenges and obstacles to reach this significant milestone in her career, becoming a role model for aspiring young athletes in her community and beyond. By being drafted into the WNBA and representing Team Canada at the Olympics, Edwards has solidified her place among the top basketball players in the world, showcasing her skills on the international stage. Her selection by the Washington Mystics marks a new chapter in her basketball career and a chance to make a lasting impact in the professional league.
As Aaliyah Edwards embarks on her professional basketball career in the WNBA, she carries with her the support and pride of her hometown of Kingston, Ontario. Her historic draft selection has brought recognition to Kingston and inspired young athletes in the community to dream big and pursue their goals in sports. Edwards’ success serves as a reminder of the opportunities available to talented athletes who work hard and stay committed to their craft. Her achievements at the collegiate and international levels have prepared her for the challenges of playing in the WNBA, where she will continue to make her mark on the court and represent her country with pride.
In conclusion, Aaliyah Edwards’ selection in the 2023 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics is a significant moment in her career and a cause for celebration in Kingston, Ontario. Her accomplishments in college basketball and international competition have positioned her as a rising star in the sport, with the potential to make a major impact in the WNBA. Edwards’ dedication to her craft, perseverance in the face of challenges, and passion for the game have earned her opportunities to showcase her skills at the highest levels of basketball. As she begins her professional career, fans, teammates, and supporters alike are excited to see what the future holds for Aaliyah Edwards in the WNBA.
