Former USC forward Kiki Iriafen named to All-Star Game as rookie

It has been a great start from Kiki Iriafen in the WNBA. Since leaving USC, the forward has established a clear role for herself on the Washington Mystics and is looking incredibly well-positioned to have a long professional career. She has already gone toe-to-toe with some of the best frontcourts in the league and has often come out ahead in her most difficult matchups.

Through her efforts, Iriafen was named to the upcoming All-Star Game that is set to take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, this year.

Already, the former Trojan is proving to be one of the better two-way players in the 'W.' An aspect that is particularly nice to see so early as a pro is how composed and how good her footwork is in the post. The Mystics have a lot of talented guard options, so they do not always look to go inside. When they do initiate possessions with a touch inside, through her, good things tend to happen.

Defensively, Iriafen shows the needed grit and high-level basketball IQ to always be in a position to disrupt the flow of the offense and secure the defensive glass. Especially when looking at some of the opposing forwards that she has already gone up against, there is a lot to like about how the first-year Washington player is able to often take her matchup out of a flow offensively.

All-Star Weekend to feature former USC forward

To already be named as an All-Star through the merits of her play speaks to how well Iriafen has adjusted to the WNBA level of play. Her game is fundamentally sound, and she knows how to play within herself without forcing something that could lead to a mistake.

Iriafen will see her work culminate in an All-Star appearance as a rookie. With the game set to take place on July 19, USC fans will be able to watch the Projan play with her current Mystics teammate, Sonia Citron.