WNBA guard Aerial Powers is leaving the Washington Mystics after three seasons to sign with the Minnesota Lynx. Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports broke the news, that was shortly confirmed by Powers.
Powers joined the Mystics in July 2018 after being traded by the Dallas Wings. The 5-foot-9 guard was a key reserve guard during the Mystics back-to-back runs to the WNBA Finals in 2018 and 2019.
She averaged 11.4 points in 2019 as Washington won their first WNBA championship. Last season, she was thrust into a starting role as multiple players opted out due to coronavirus pandemic.
Inside the Florida bubble, Powers had a career-high 16.3 points and 4.8 rebounds while shooting a career-best 46.4%. However, a hamstring injury sidelined her after six games.
Powers appears set for a long-term increased role with the Lynx, as Washington’s stars Natasha Cloud and Elena Delle Donne are expected to return for the 2021 season. Powers is also welcoming the opportunity to return to the Midwest where she’s from and starred at Michigan State.
“I want to first thank the Washington Mystics, from coach [Mike Thibault] to everybody on the staff for welcoming me with open arms,” Powers told Yahoo Sports. “I want to thank the fans for supporting me through my injuries. Their support never wavered. I won a championship with that franchise, and I’m extremely grateful. It’s the best experience a player can have. I also want to thank Monumental Sports, Ted and Zach Leonsis for supporting me. But right now, it’s only right that I sign with the Lynx. I’m ready to win another championship. I’m excited to be coached by Cheryl Reeve. I’m excited to bring a championship home to the midwest, where I’m from Detroit…”
In Minnesota, Powers will join Sylvia Fowles, Kayla McBride and the Rookie of the Year Crystal Dangerfield.
