The Washington Mystics made a strategic move in the 2025 WNBA Draft by selecting Liza Karlen, a standout player from the University of Notre Dame, with the No. 3 overall pick. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the Mystics, who have consistently been one of the top teams in the league but have been in search of that next dynamic player who can help them elevate their game to championship contention. Karlen, a versatile and dynamic player, has the potential to be that game-changer. This article will explore why the Mystics chose Karlen, the strengths she brings to the table, and how her selection impacts the franchise’s future.
Liza Karlen’s Rise at Notre Dame
Liza Karlen’s journey to the WNBA was anything but ordinary. She wasn’t always a highly touted recruit, but through sheer determination, work ethic, and an innate ability to perform at the highest levels of competition, she developed into one of the most feared players in college basketball. Karlen’s time at Notre Dame was marked by continuous improvement, and by her senior year, she had transformed into one of the most complete players in the nation.
During her four years with the Fighting Irish, Karlen was the epitome of consistency. She showcased her elite scoring ability, superior basketball IQ, and relentless work on the boards. Her statistics during her senior year were impressive, averaging 18.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. What made her stand out even more was her ability to do it all. Karlen wasn’t just a scorer; she was also a playmaker, an outstanding defender, and an efficient presence in the post.
Her leadership on and off the court was a key factor in Notre Dame’s success, and she led the team to multiple deep tournament runs, including a Final Four appearance in 2024. Karlen’s ability to perform in high-pressure moments was one of the primary reasons for her rise to the top of the draft board. The Mystics saw in her the ability to not only contribute immediately but to develop into one of the league’s premier players.
Strengths That Appeal to the Mystics
Karlen’s strengths are numerous, and her well-rounded game is what makes her such an appealing pick for Washington. The Mystics, led by head coach Eric Thibault, are known for their unselfish style of play, commitment to defense, and ability to space the floor. Karlen fits seamlessly into this system in several ways.
1. Scoring Versatility
One of Karlen’s most notable attributes is her scoring versatility. At Notre Dame, she proved she could score in a multitude of ways. Whether it was driving to the basket, hitting mid-range jump shots, or knocking down three-pointers, Karlen was an offensive threat from all areas of the floor. Her combination of size, skill, and agility allows her to excel both inside and on the perimeter. This makes her a matchup nightmare for opposing defenders, and it also allows her to contribute in a variety of offensive sets.
For a Mystics team that has leaned on star guard Natasha Cloud and forward Elena Delle Donne for offense, adding another dynamic scorer like Karlen gives them the ability to run more diverse offensive sets. Karlen’s versatility will be particularly beneficial in closing out games or in situations where Delle Donne or Cloud may be neutralized by opposing defenses.
2. Elite Rebounding and Interior Presence
Another area where Karlen excels is in rebounding. Standing at 6’3″, she is a physical presence inside, and her tenacity on the boards allows her to contribute significantly in both transition and half-court offense. In the WNBA, where the physicality of the game is amplified, Karlen’s ability to battle for position and secure boards will help the Mystics control the paint.
While the Mystics have a strong frontcourt presence with Delle Donne and Myisha Hines-Allen, Karlen’s rebounding ability will provide depth and the potential for the Mystics to dominate the boards. Her ability to grab both offensive and defensive rebounds and immediately push the ball in transition will add a new dimension to Washington’s fast-paced offense.
3. Defensive Versatility
Karlen is not just an offensive weapon; she is also a capable defender. During her time at Notre Dame, she was known for her ability to guard multiple positions. Whether defending against smaller, quicker guards or larger, more physical forwards, Karlen’s defensive skills are a key reason she was considered one of the top picks in the draft.
Her basketball IQ, quick footwork, and ability to read the game make her an excellent on-ball defender. Her lateral movement allows her to switch on screens and guard players in space, which will be invaluable in a league that features so many multi-skilled athletes. Defensively, Karlen will be able to help the Mystics defend the perimeter, contest shots at the rim, and disrupt passing lanes.
4. Leadership and Mental Toughness
Leadership is another factor that makes Karlen such an appealing choice for Washington. Throughout her college career, she was known as a vocal leader on the court, someone who held her teammates accountable and always worked to elevate the play of others. This mental toughness and leadership will serve her well as she transitions to the WNBA.
The Mystics, despite their success, have had to navigate injuries and roster changes in recent years. Having a player like Karlen, who understands the importance of communication, cohesion, and mental resilience, will strengthen the team’s leadership dynamic. With veteran players like Delle Donne and Cloud, Karlen will be able to learn from their experience while also contributing to the team’s growth.
How Karlen Fits into the Mystics’ System
The Washington Mystics have been one of the most successful teams in the WNBA over the past few seasons, thanks to their balanced roster and emphasis on both offensive execution and defensive discipline. Karlen’s selection bolsters their already formidable roster and adds depth in key areas.
1. Strengthening the Frontcourt
Adding Karlen gives the Mystics another versatile player in the frontcourt. With Delle Donne, Hines-Allen, and now Karlen, the Mystics have one of the deepest frontcourts in the league. The ability to play Karlen alongside Delle Donne could provide a unique two-player tandem in the post, with Delle Donne stretching the floor and Karlen working inside. Karlen’s ability to operate on the perimeter also complements the more traditional post-play of Delle Donne, allowing the Mystics to create mismatches on offense.
2. Depth and Versatility on the Wing
While Karlen excels in the frontcourt, she also has the ability to play as a forward on the wing, which adds depth and flexibility to the Mystics’ lineup. The combination of her scoring ability, athleticism, and defensive chops gives coach Eric Thibault the flexibility to rotate players in and out of the lineup without losing a step on either side of the ball. The ability to move players like Karlen around positions will make Washington even more unpredictable for opponents, which is a key advantage in a playoff series.
3. Championship Aspirations
With the addition of Karlen, the Washington Mystics now have the potential to challenge for a WNBA title in the 2025 season and beyond. The team’s core—led by Delle Donne, Cloud, and Hines-Allen—combined with the fresh talent brought in through the draft, makes the Mystics one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. Karlen’s scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence will help elevate the team to the next level.
While many teams are focused on building for the future, Washington is still very much in “win-now” mode. The combination of seasoned veterans and exciting new talent like Karlen could be the formula needed for a deep playoff run.
The Washington Mystics’ selection of Liza Karlen with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft was a calculated move that speaks to both the franchise’s immediate needs and its long-term vision. Karlen’s all-around game, combined with her leadership qualities and mental toughness, makes her an ideal fit for a team looking to compete for championships in the coming seasons.
For Karlen, this marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career in the WNBA. She enters a situation where she has the chance to contribute right away while also learning from some of the best players in the game. For the Mystics, Karlen’s addition strengthens their roster and adds a new layer of depth to an already formidable team. With Karlen in the fold, the Mystics are positioned to continue their pursuit of a WNBA title and cement their place as one of the league’s elite franchises.
