The Washington Mystics made a significant move on Sunday by trading two-time All-Star guard Ariel Atkins to the Chicago Sky in exchange for the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft.

In addition, the Mystics secured a first-round pick swap in 2027 and Chicago’s second-round pick for the same year.

“Our goal is to establish a program that sustains a competitive edge in the next chapter of Mystics Basketball. Achieving long-lasting success will require thoughtful decisions and patience,” stated general manager Jamila Wideman in the announcement of the trade. “Letting go of Ariel, a champion and valued member of the team, was an incredibly tough choice.”

Atkins, who won the WNBA championship with the Mystics in 2019 and represented her country at the 2020 Olympics, has a career average of 13.4 points and 3.0 rebounds per game.

“Ariel has significantly influenced this league since she joined,” commented Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca. “As an exemplary role model for her teammates and a player of all-star caliber, she brings exceptional defense and consistent scoring, making her a valuable asset in our pursuit of a playoff-worthy team in Chicago.”

This trade marks the beginning of a rebuilding phase for the Mystics after parting ways with general manager Mike Thibault and coach Eric Thibault earlier this offseason.

In 2024, the Mystics narrowly missed the playoffs and have not secured a playoff victory since their championship run in 2019. The team welcomed new head coach Sydney Johnson and general manager Wideman earlier this month.

Meanwhile, the Sky also missed the playoff cut in 2024 but are optimistic about the 2025 season, having revamped their roster with new players such as Courtney Vandersloot, Kia Nurse, and Rebecca Allen joining the squad, alongside promising second-year talents like Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso.