The W | Sonia Citron Forcing Herself into ROY Conversation

The WNBA rookie class has lived up to the hype, with names like Paige Bueckers, Dominique Malonga, and even her teammate- Kiki Iriafen dominating headlines. But one player who deserves more recognition in the Rookie of the Year race is Sonia Citron of the Washington Mystics. While some rookies are putting up numbers on struggling teams, Citron is not only producing but also playing winning basketball—helping keep the Mystics in the playoff hunt.

A Rookie With Veteran Poise

Citron has been a model of consistency all season. She’s averaging double figures while shooting efficiently from the field, from three, and from the free-throw line. Unlike many first-year players who rely solely on scoring, she contributes across the board—rebounding, creating for teammates, and playing tough defense. That versatility has made her one of Washington’s most reliable options down the stretch of games.

She’s already had signature performances that stand out, including a 28-point career night and multiple fourth-quarter scoring bursts that have helped the Mystics steal wins. Those moments highlight not just her skill but also her ability to thrive in high-pressure situations—something every Rookie of the Year candidate should be judged on.

Recognition and Respect

Citron’s impact has been recognized league-wide. She was named a WNBA All-Star reserve in her first year, a rare honor for any rookie. Coaches and veterans around the league have praised her smooth game, high basketball IQ, and ability to score at all three levels. That kind of respect so early in her career suggests she’s not just a good rookie—she’s already on her way to becoming a star.

Mystics Rising, Wings Falling

Context matters in award races. The Mystics, after a rocky start, are knocking on the door of the playoffs thanks in large part to the steady contributions of Citron and fellow rookie Kiki Iriafen. Their growth has energized the franchise and given Washington a realistic shot at the postseason.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Wings—home to another top rookie in Paige Bueckers—are sitting at the bottom of the standings. While Bueckers has been terrific individually, her team’s struggles raise questions about impact. Citron, on the other hand, is proving her value not just through stats but through wins, something voters should weigh heavily.

The Case for Citron

Rookie of the Year isn’t just about highlight plays or popularity—it’s about who made the biggest impact on their team and the league in their first season. Sonia Citron checks all the boxes:

• Consistent scorer and efficient shooter.

• Versatile contributor on both ends of the floor.

• Clutch performer in close games.

• Driving force behind a potential playoff run.

If the Mystics secure a postseason spot while the Wings remain at the bottom, it will be hard to deny that Citron’s rookie year deserves more recognition. She may not have had the preseason hype of some of her peers, but she’s making a strong case—on the court every night—that she belongs at the very top of the Rookie of the Year conversation.