WNBA · Eastern Conference · Washington, District of Columbia, US
Washington, D.C. Washington Mystics
The 2019 WNBA champions, the Washington Mystics won it all behind Elena Delle Donne and became the first WNBA team to play in their own dedicated arena - a template for the league's future.
1998–2016
Building in D.C.
Patience in the nation's capital
The Mystics spent nearly two decades building toward championship contention, featuring talented players but unable to break through to the Finals. The franchise's proximity to the NBA's Wizards provided institutional support but also meant competing for attention in a crowded D.C. sports market.
Key Facts
- Founded in 1998 as a WNBA expansion team
- Played at various venues in the D.C. area for early seasons
- Built competitive rosters without reaching the Finals
- Drafted and developed key talent through the WNBA pipeline
2017–Present
Championship and Legacy
Elena Delle Donne delivers a title
The acquisition of Elena Delle Donne via trade in 2017 transformed the franchise. Delle Donne's arrival coincided with the opening of the Entertainment & Sports Arena, and the combination of a franchise player and a purpose-built home produced the 2019 WNBA Championship. Delle Donne was named Finals MVP as the Mystics defeated the Connecticut Sun in five games.
Key Facts
- Elena Delle Donne acquired via trade in 2017
- Won the 2019 WNBA Championship, defeating Connecticut 3-2
- Delle Donne named Finals MVP in 2019
- Entertainment & Sports Arena opened as the first WNBA-dedicated facility