Within her WNBA career’s eventful first week, Aaliyah Edwards was presented with battles against former Most Valuable Players, fellow 2024 WNBA Draft classmates, and even occasional signs of respect through double teams. In response, the No. 6 pick showcased something of her own: fearlessness and unlimited potential. Positioned around the low block in the final two minutes of a one-possession game, Edwards, with All-Star forward Dearica Hamby defending the rim, balances her stance in preparation of her move. In the type of situation that rookies often have to fail at first, Edwards remained poised, charging down the baseline with her trademark first step before hanging an across-the-rim, and-one finish over Cameron Brink’s contest. The Washington Mystics, in the middle of an 8-0 run following Edwards’ score, would ultimately fall at the buzzer in a loss to the Los Angeles Sparks. Productive nonetheless, Edwards got involved everywhere through 10 points (on five-of-seven shooting), three rebounds, one assist, three steals, and two blocks in 24 minutes of play on May 21, 2024. · May 22, 2024