Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron entered the WNBA determined to make an impact and leave an unmistakable mark with her team-and she is succeeding. At 6-foot-1, Citron has demonstrated this season that her draft class brought plenty of talent to elevate the league. While Paige Bueckers’ impressive rookie campaign has somewhat overshadowed her rise, and her striking physical resemblance to Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has added a unique twist to her story, Citron’s skill set speaks for itself.
Constant comparisons with Caitlin Clark
During her college career at Notre Dame, Citron was frequently mistaken for Clark. Walking down the street, the mix-ups could be amusing but also awkward, as people would call her by the wrong name.
I would say something weird happened when I got recognized, because it wasn’t me.” Citron recalled. “I was at a restaurant with my two best friends from Notre Dame, in South Bend, and this guy came up to me, and was super excited, and was like ‘Oh my goodness, are you Caitlin Clark?’… ‘It’s not me.’
It seemed clear that a passionate Clark fan wanted a photo with the superstar, only to realize later that he had approached the wrong player.
Beyond casual encounters, the comparisons have carried over into the professional ranks. Young guards entering the WNBA are often measured against Clark, a generational talent and media favorite. However, Citron’s performances have steadily proven she is carving her own path, independent of those parallels.
Through consistent play and standout moments, Citron has emerged as a key piece for the Mystics. She has left behind the comparisons to Clark and is building her legacy with the same quality and poise she displayed during her college years.
Battling Paige Bueckers for Rookie of the Year
From the opening tip of the season, Citron has been locked in a fierce battle with Paige Bueckers for Rookie of the Year honors. Both players have shown elite skill, demonstrating that they will be central figures in the WNBA for years to come.
Citron is averaging 15.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. For a rookie, her numbers are exceptional, and she leads her team in several statistical categories.
Her efficiency has been equally impressive, shooting 47% from the field and an outstanding 43.9% from beyond the arc. Citron now holds the Mystics’ franchise record for most three-pointers by a rookie, knocking down over 75 triples.
She also surpassed a milestone previously held by her perceived rival, Caitlin Clark. In a game against the Los Angeles Sparks on August 31, Citron recorded her 36th straight game scoring in double figures, another testament to her consistency.
While Bueckers remains the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, there is still time for the narrative to shift. Citron’s numbers speak loudly, and if she continues her stellar play, she could secure the votes needed to claim the award and establish herself as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
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