Ahead of their Tuesday face-off in Washington, former Notre Dame teammates Sonia Citron and Maddy Westbeld shared praise for each other’s games. Now playing for the Mystics and Sky respectively, both have transitioned into their rookie WNBA seasons after leading the Irish to the Sweet 16 earlier this year. Citron, the No. 3 pick, has become a key contributor in Washington, while Westbeld, drafted No. 16, has found a bench role in Chicago.
Citron described Westbeld as “underrated,” highlighting her versatility as a forward with guard-like skills quick enough to beat bigger players and strong enough to overpower smaller ones. She praised her former teammate’s pull-up jumper and post moves, calling them lethal and “fabulous.” Citron also admired Westbeld’s calming presence off the court, saying, “She exudes peace.”
Westbeld has earned consistent minutes with the Sky, helped by team injuries and her relentless work ethic. “My focus is on the little things,” she said, adding that she hopes to showcase more of her full game as she settles in. Since the All-Star break, she’s averaged 21.5 minutes and 4.5 points per game.
Westbeld also had high praise for Citron, expressing satisfaction that people are starting to recognize her off-ball skills — something she felt was previously overshadowed by Notre Dame teammate Olivia Miles’ playmaking. “Now you can really see her talent,” Westbeld said.
Citron, now an All-Star rookie, is averaging 13.6 points and hitting 35% from deep. Interestingly, the Sky had the No. 3 pick but traded it to the Mystics for veteran Ariel Atkins, missing their chance to draft her.
Point Guard Reinforcements Incoming
The Sky are expecting help at point guard on Friday. Sevgi Uzun, who signed for the rest of the season while still in Turkey, will join the team in Chicago before their game against the Valkyries. Uzun most recently played in the EuroBasket tournament, where she averaged 7.3 points and 5.3 assists for Turkey. She previously appeared in the WNBA with the Wings and Mercury.
Sky coach Tyler Marsh said Uzun’s international and WNBA experience makes her a valuable addition. Since Courtney Vandersloot’s ACL injury in early June, Chicago has been without a true point guard, relying on shooting guard Rachel Banham to direct the offense. Marsh said Uzun’s arrival will allow Banham to return to her natural position.
Top scorer Ariel Atkins remains sidelined and did not make the trip to Washington. Marsh said she’s “day-to-day,” but the team has yet to win a game in her absence.
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