The Unrivaled League is not only a 3-on-3 competition anymore, but also a recruiting landscape where many players form bonds with other franchise players and even influence their free agency decisions. While the Rose BC made a strong start to the season, Chelsea Gray clearly took over more responsibility for the defending champions. Another star shining on the floor is Shakira Austin.
The forward-guard duo made a great partnership, and their recent win over the Breeze BC showed their versatility and chemistry, which could be a great indication for the Washington Mystics, too.
Shakira Austin Gives Washington Mystics Hope
The Rose BC continued their unbeaten run and defeated Breeze BC. The Chelsea Grey vs Paige Bueckers was a much-anticipated matchup; one player who stole the spotlight was the Mystics’ forward.
She averaged 14.3 points and 8 rebounds over the first three games, forming a great combination with Azura Stevens and thriving on Chelsea Grey’s playmaking. The trio played a key role in the win as the Rose BC looks like a contender for the title once again.
FINAL 🌹
— ROSE BC 🌹🏆 (@RoseBCUpdates) January 12, 2026
Chelsea Gray – 37 PTS | 5 REB | 4 AST
Shakira Austin – 17 PTS | 8 REB | 67% FG
Azura Stevens – 12 PTS | 6 REB | 1 AST
HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THIS TEAM??? GRIT, TOUGHNESS, AND A WHOLE LOT OF BELT. 3-0 TO START THE SEASON AND WE AIN'T LETTIN UP! pic.twitter.com/5WFSAcXz0W
The Washington Mystics parted ways with their veteran guard midway through the season, in a trade with the Storm. While it highlighted their decision to move forward with the young core, Austin’s performance surely gives them an idea of how to build a team with just one addition.
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Interestingly, the Washington Mystics have a ready-made solution at their disposal, and they might not have to spend much on it.
Olivia Miles Would Be Perfect Fit In Washington Mystics Around Shakira Austin
Talking about an elite playmaker, the WNBA draft also has many top guards available. As the Mystics land the fourth overall pick, they will have a realistic chance of landing a top guard from the draft. One name that stands out from the draft is Olivia Miles, who is among the top 5 WNBA draft prospects and is currently shining for TCU.
The explosive scorer-playmaker would be a perfect playmaker alongside the young core of the Mystics, who already have Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and now Shakira Austin on the roll. At the moment, Miles tied for fifth in total assists with Oregon’s Katie Fiso with 130 assists.
Her overall performance is also encouraging. The star is averaging 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 2 steals per game. It will be interesting to see whether the front office will have the chance to land Miles or take a veteran guard to provide its young side with leadership on the court.