The Washington Mystics history highlights the rise of a premier franchise in the WNBA. Since their founding in 1998, Washington Mystics basketball has captivated fans with star players, passionate supporters, and memorable seasons. This legacy reflects their growth from an expansion team to a championship contender, shaping women’s professional basketball in the nation’s capital.
Established
1998
City
Washington D.C.
League History
1998 – Present / Women’s National Basketball Association
Team History
1998 – Present / Washington Mystics
Nickname
Mystics – The Washington Mystics have been a part of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) since 1998, and their name has become synonymous with success in the league. But what many fans may not know is that there’s an interesting story behind their nickname.
When the franchise was first established, it was known as “Washington Miracle” after its home city of Washington, D.C. Still, this name didn't stick for long due to its religious connotations, which some found inappropriate for a sports team. So, they decided to go with something more appropriate - The Mystics!
Washington Mystics Origin
This new name pays homage to one of America's oldest cities. It celebrates both its rich history and culture by invoking images of mysticism associated with D.C.'s past: from ancient Native American spiritual beliefs about protection from evil forces through sacred symbols or rituals; to Freemasonry lodges where arcane knowledge was shared among members; up until today when people practice various forms such as tarot card readings or astrology to gain insight into their future paths in life!
In addition, The Mystics' colors are also symbolic – navy blue represents stability while gold symbolizes power – perfect colors for any championship-caliber team looking forward to achieving greatness on the court each season!
All these elements come together perfectly at every game day when thousands upon thousands chant out “Let’s Go Mysticssss!!!” during pre-game introductions or throughout timeouts - showing just how much pride DC residents take in having such an iconic WNBA franchise representing them across America & beyond!
Championship
WNBA Championships 1
2019
Arena
2019 - Present / St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena
1998 – 2018 / Capital One Arena
Owner
2005 – Present / Monumental Sports & Entertainment/Ted Leonsis
1998 – 2005 / Abe Pollin
- 1999
- 2015
- 2019
-
Mystics Team Formation
The Washington Mystics were one of the first WNBA expansion franchises to be established. Two teams were added in 1998 (Detroit and Washington) and two more in 1999 (Orlando and Minnesota), bringing the number of teams in the league up to twelve. -
Delle Donne Time
During the 2016 – 2017 off-season, the Mystics were busy in the trade market. With enough trade assets, they were determined to make a trade for a superstar player. First, on January 30, the team executed a three-way deal with the New York Liberty and Seattle Storm, sending Bria Hartley and Kia Vaughn to the Liberty and receiving the Storm’s ... -
WNBA Champions Mystics 2019
Meesseman returned in the 2019 WNBA season, and her return powered the Mystics towards achieving an unprecedented regular-season record of 26–8, leading the entire league in total wins and losses and earning them the top spot in the playoffs. With a dogged determination to come back to the Finals and high hopes that a Finals title would, at last, be ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Washington Mystics History
The Washington Mystics history reflects the journey of one of the most prominent franchises in the WNBA. Based in the nation’s capital, Washington Mystics basketball began in 1998 as part of the league’s first wave of expansion teams. Over the years, the team has grown from an expansion roster to one of the most competitive and inspiring organizations in the WNBA.
Since their debut, the Washington Mystics have reached the playoffs multiple times, making notable runs in the postseason. They earned their first Eastern Conference Championship in 2018 and returned to the WNBA Finals in 2019. Under strong leadership and coaching, they transformed from perennial underdogs to a championship-caliber team, with fan support growing each season at the Entertainment and Sports Arena.
Mystics Achievements
The turning point in Washington Mystics history came when the franchise acquired Elena Delle Donne in 2017. Her arrival elevated Washington Mystics basketball, as she quickly became a league MVP and led the team to consecutive Finals appearances. In 2019, the Mystics captured their first-ever WNBA Championship after defeating the Connecticut Sun, cementing their place among the league’s elite.
Beyond their 2019 title, the Washington Mystics have also earned multiple division titles and continue to develop All-Star-caliber players such as Natasha Cloud, Ariel Atkins, and Myisha Hines-Allen. Their ongoing commitment to community initiatives and youth programs highlights how Washington Mystics basketball is making an impact both on and off the court, ensuring their legacy grows well beyond their championship banner.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history