WASHINGTON, D.C. – Closing out a monumental year for women in sports, the Washington Mystics used the 2024 WNBA season to give back to young basketball players in the DMV and build the next generation of female athletes.

In August, the Mystics hosted their Her Time to Play theme game. The evening was dedicated to championing change on behalf of girls and women, inspiring young girls to participate in youth sports. One highlight was trailblazing athlete Mo'ne Davis sharing encouraging words and support with some of the attendees. All game, the Mystics shed light on access and equity within youth sports and recreation programs across the country.

During All-Star weekend in Phoenix, Mystics forward Shakira Austin spoke on a Jr. WNBA panel to an audience of young girls on the importance of powering through difficulties and tough times. The program is the league's initiative committed to championing change on behalf of girls and women while also providing them with ways to connect, collaborate, and actively engage with basketball and each other.

According to the Jr. WNBA, 91% of women in leadership roles who played sports say the skills they developed while playing were beneficial to success in their professional careers as adults. Additionally, 70% of African-American neighborhoods and 81% of Hispanic neighborhoods did not have any recreational facilities, while only 38% of white neighborhoods lacked the same.

Throughout the summer, the Mystics welcomed the DMV youth basketball community to their gameday clinics and annual summer basketball camp. The initiatives actively taught both fundamental skills development, and an understanding of how to use these skills within the framework of team concepts. The clinics provided players aged 6 to 14 with a unique, memorable experience and a chance to share the same court as the stars of the WNBA. Mystics camp sold out in record time this season, but will be back for 2025.

Most recently, Monumental Sports & Entertainment announced the launch of their newest initiative - District of Play. This multi-year commitment to DC will invest in the youth with basketball court refurbishments, street hockey rink creations, community clinics, equipment donations, and programming. It is focused on improving and expanding access to existing youth sports infrastructure across the District, while also introducing new programs specifically adapted to reach those most often left on the sidelines. The goal of DOP is to build a sustainable lasting impact that reflects the vibrant spirit of our region, showing that when we "Raise the Game," EVERYONE benefits.