Mystics Trade Aaliyah Edwards to Sun for Jacy Sheldon in Major Deal

The Washington Mystics have traded Aaliyah Edwards to the Connecticut Sun in exchange for Jacy Sheldon and a right to swap first-round picks in 2026, as announced on Thursday. This move comes as the Mystics focus on rebuilding their roster ahead of the WNBA trade deadline at 3 p.m. ET.

The deal allows Washington to either retain its own first-round pick in 2026, which originally belonged to the WNBA-leading Minnesota Lynx, or opt for Connecticut’s pick, acquired from the New York Liberty, currently positioned second in the standings. The Mystics have been active in recent days, previously trading Brittney Sykes for Alysha Clark and acquiring Seattle’s 2026 first-round pick.

Edwards’ Transition to Connecticut

Edwards, who played her college basketball at UConn, was selected sixth overall by the Mystics in the 2024 WNBA Draft. The 6-foot-3 forward averaged 7.0 points and 4.7 rebounds over 18.5 minutes per game during her tenure in Washington.

Morgan Tuck, general manager of the Sun, expressed enthusiasm about Edwards’ arrival, stating, “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. Aaliyah is a transformational talent with the mindset and drive that aligns with our vision of building a championship culture.”

Edwards will become the 19th former UConn player to join the Sun since the franchise’s relocation to Connecticut in 2003, according to ESPN Research. After a promising start last season, her playing time has decreased this year, and trade discussions about her have been ongoing throughout the season. The Mystics’ frontcourt features young talents such as Kiki Iriafen and Shakira Austin, along with veteran Stefanie Dolson.

Sheldon Joins the Mystics

In return, Jacy Sheldon, selected fifth overall by the Dallas Wings in the 2024 draft before her offseason trade to the Sun, heads to Washington. The 5-foot-10 guard has posted an average of 6.3 points and 2.3 assists per game in her young career.

“Mystics general manager Jamila Wideman expressed her excitement about Sheldon, saying, ‘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. She is a competitor and leads through the example of her work ethic.'”

As both teams adjust to their new lineups, the trade signifies a significant shift in strategy for the Mystics as they look to cultivate a new core of talent while the Sun aim to bolster their championship aspirations with Edwards.