Former UConn Star Suffers Unfortunate Setback Before WNBA Season
It was announced two weeks ago, on May 1, by the Washington Mystics that forward Aaliyah Edwards would be sidelined at least two weeks because she was diagnosed with a low-back contusion during training camp. It is unclear exactly how Edwards sustained the injury. The press release stated that she would be re-evaluated again in two weeks.
On Friday, hours before the team's WNBA season opener, it was reported by Underdog WNBA on X that Edwards will not be playing again for at least two more weeks as she continues to recover from her back injury.
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The Mystics concluded their 2025 preseason with two losses, falling 79–74 in overtime to the Indiana Fever on May 3 and 80–70 to the Atlanta Dream last Wednesday.
Aaliyah Edwards poses with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert after she is selected with the number six overall pick by the Washington Mystics in the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music.Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Before joining the WNBA in 2024, Edwards had a strong college career at UConn alongside Paige Bueckers. Over four seasons, she amassed 1,861 points and 1,020 rebounds, ranking 15th and 8th, respectively, in UConn's records. She is one of only six players in the program's history to achieve both 1,800 points and 1,000 rebounds.
The 22-year-old Canadian basketball player was selected sixth overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Mystics and signed her rookie contract shortly thereafter. In her debut season, Edwards played in 34 games and averaged 7.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.
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Internationally, Edwards has represented Canada and made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games as the youngest member of the Canadian women's basketball team. Additionally, she participated in the 2025 season of Unrivaled, a women's 3-on-3 basketball league, where she reached the finals of the 1-on-1 tournament.
Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Sparks.Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Mystics are set to start their official WNBA season on Friday evening against the Atlanta Dream at 4:30 p.m. PT.
Related: Wings Reveal Major News Ahead Of Paige Bueckers' First Season
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