Shakira Austin is an American professional basketball player who currently plays center for the Washington Mystics in the WNBA. Recognized for her shot-blocking, rebounding, and versatility, Austin was selected third overall in the 2022 WNBA Draft and has quickly established herself as a foundational player for the franchise.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Shakira Austin
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Date of Birth: July 25, 2000
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Hometown: Fredericksburg, Virginia
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Height: 6’5″ (1.96 m)
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Weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)
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Position: Center/Forward
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Family:
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Parents: David Austin and Jessica King
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Oldest of five siblings
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Uncle, Waverly Austin, played college and overseas basketball
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High School:
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Riverdale Baptist School (Upper Marlboro, Maryland)
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McDonald’s All-American (2018)
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Jordan Brand Classic participant
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Senior year: 17.4 points, 9.4 rebounds per game
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One of the top-ranked players in her class
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College Career
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University of Maryland (2018–2020):
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All-Big Ten Freshman Team (2019)
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Set school record for blocks in a season (89)
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All-Big Ten Second Team (2020)
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Big Ten All-Defensive Team (2019)
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University of Mississippi (Ole Miss, 2020–2022):
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First-team All-SEC (2021, 2022)
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Gillom Trophy winner (2021, 2022)
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SEC All-Tournament Team
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Lisa Leslie Award Top-10 finalist
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Senior season: 15.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, 1.2 steals per game
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10 double-doubles, 13 games with 10+ rebounds
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Set Ole Miss SEC Tournament record with six blocks in a game
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Career-high 27 points vs. Florida, 16 rebounds vs. Arkansas
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First Ole Miss player in seven seasons with 20+ points and 15+ rebounds in a game
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Surpassed 1,000 career rebounds
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Professional Career
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WNBA Draft: 1st round, 3rd overall, 2022 WNBA Draft by Washington Mystics
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Teams:
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Washington Mystics (2022–present)
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WNBA Stats (through 2025):
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2022: 8.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.0 steals per game
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2023: 10.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, 0.8 steals per game
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Career highs: 25 points, 16 rebounds, 4 blocks, 5 steals
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WNBA All-Rookie Team (2022)
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Overseas:
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Elitzur Ramla (Israel, 2022–2023): Led team to Israeli championship, named league MVP
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Other:
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Unrivaled 3×3 league (Lunar Owls, 2024–present)
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International and National Team Career
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USA Basketball:
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Gold medalist, 2022 FIBA World Cup
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Invited to USA Basketball U18 Team Trials (2018)
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USA Women’s National Team training camp (2024)
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Achievements & Honors
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Washington Mystics (WNBA, 2022–present)
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WNBA All-Rookie Team (2022)
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Israeli Premier League champion (2023)
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Israeli Premier League MVP (2023)
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First-team All-SEC (2021, 2022)
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Gillom Trophy (2021, 2022)
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SEC All-Tournament Team
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Lisa Leslie Award Top-10 finalist
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All-Big Ten Freshman Team (2019)
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All-Big Ten Second Team (2020)
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Big Ten All-Defensive Team (2019)
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McDonald’s All-American (2018)
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Jordan Brand Classic participant
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Gold medalist, 2022 FIBA World Cup
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USA Women’s National Team training camp (2024)
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Unrivaled 3×3 league participant (2024–present)
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Elite shot-blocking and rebounding
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Versatile scorer and defender
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High basketball IQ and leadership
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Clutch performer in big games
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Style:
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Aggressive, dynamic center who excels in transition and half-court offense
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Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality
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FAQs About Shakira Austin
What position does Shakira Austin play?
Center/Forward
Which team does she play for?
Washington Mystics (WNBA)
How old is Shakira Austin?
24 (born July 25, 2000)
What are her main achievements?
WNBA All-Rookie Team, Israeli Premier League champion and MVP, first-team All-SEC, Gillom Trophy winner, All-Big Ten Freshman and Second Team, McDonald’s All-American, gold medalist at 2022 FIBA World Cup
What is her playing style?
Versatile, aggressive center with elite shot-blocking and rebounding
Conclusion
Shakira Austin is a dominant and accomplished center whose shot-blocking, rebounding, and championship pedigree have made her a cornerstone for the Washington Mystics and one of the most respected young players in women’s basketball.
