USC Projan Kiki Iriafen wins in WNBA debut battle against Brittney Griner

In terms of a 'welcome to the W' moment, former USC forward Kiki Iriafen going up against Brittney Griner isn't what most people would want for their first regular season matchup in the WNBA. This past draft's number four overall pick, however, seems to embrace and love the physical challenge.

At one point down by double-digits, the Washington Mystics fought back and took their first game of the year against the Atlanta Dream. The 94-90 victory at the CareFirst Arena in our nation's capital gave fans an early further glimpse of what to expect from Iriafen.

After spending three seasons at Stanford and her senior year at USC, Iriafen has since entered into the professional ranks. Looking far from a rookie, her play often sees her being the aggressor and initiating contact.

Not that confidence would be an issue with Iriafen anyway, but a lot of times first-year players face a significant hurdle when realizing the shock of the higher level of play. Fortunately for Trojan fans continuing to follow her career, this is not a concern whatsoever.

Iriafen not only got the start for Washington, but another telling early trust was noticeable in the first WNBA game of the year. If it weren't for a late, final sixth foul, the rookie would have also finished the game. That's something she'll clean up as she accumulates games, learning how to play without picking up as many early fouls. Still, to have this much confidence from the Mystics' staff already to play through foul trouble and be on the floor late is a good indication for her.

The forward had a good showing on the offensive side. Not forcing anything, and at times trying to take advantage of her matchup. It was good to see Iriafen take on Griner and Brionna Jones down low, outmuscling her matchups for points in the paint.

Former USC F getting it done on both ends

Iriafen finished with 14 points and four rebounds. Perhaps more telling was her defensive work. In an equal telling, she was tasked with needing to slow down Griner. That is not an easy assignment for anyone, as the long-time Phoenix Mercury player has twice been the WNBA scoring champion.

Even here, Iriafen did a good job of being physical and making life difficult for Griner. The Atlanta frontcourt player may have finished with 18 points, but Iriafen played a major role in holding her to a +/- of -3.

There were a lot of positives to take from this. The Mystics will look to make it two in a row when they face the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. Iriafen will see a familiar face again with Rayah Marshall, having recently been drafted and named to that team's roster.