The Washington Mystics have acquired Elena Delle Donne from the Chicago Sky for Stefanie Dolson, Kahleah Copper and the No. 2 pick in this year’s draft.
The 2015 WNBA MVP is arguably the biggest name ever to be traded in the 21-year history of the WNBA. Thursday’s move gets Delle Donne closer to her Delaware home.
Editor’s Picks How good can the Mystics be with Delle Donne?
Elena Delle Donne’s likely move to Washington is one of the biggest trades in WNBA history. Are the Mystics — who have had more downs than ups in 19 seasons — on the verge of something great?
\u00ab\u00a0Clearly, this is one of the biggest moves in the history of this organization,\u00a0\u00bb Mystics coach Mike Thibault said in a statement. \u00ab\u00a0In only four years, Elena has established herself as one of the premier players in the world, as evidenced by her MVP season two years ago. Her impact on and off the court will be invaluable. \u00a0\u00bb
Delle Donne averaged 21.5 points and seven rebounds a game last season for the Sky, helping them reach the playoffs. She missed the postseason after right thumb surgery.
\u00ab\u00a0I’m really excited about this next chapter in my career with the Mystics,\u00a0\u00bb Delle Donne said in a statement. \u00ab\u00a0Coach Thibault, [owner Ted] Leonsis and [president Sheila] Johnson have built a strong team that is ready to make a significant impact in the league, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. \u00a0\u00bb
The Mystics and Washington Wizards star John Wall wasted no time welcoming Delle Donne to the city.
It’s officially official. Welcome to DC, @de11edonne \u203c #A11DC pic.twitter.com\/70OmFgq7bm
\u2014 Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) February 2, 2017
Hey #DCFamily let’s welcome @De11eDonne to @WashMystics<\/p>\n