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Lauren Betts opens WNBA career in first preseason game for the Washington Mystics

Lauren Betts steps in as the franchise player as the Washington Mystics took her No. 4
Apr 25, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Mystics center Lauren Betts (51) drives to the basket as Minnesota Lynx forward Jade Masogayo (15) defends in the first half at Entertainment & Sports Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Mystics center Lauren Betts (51) drives to the basket as Minnesota Lynx forward Jade Masogayo (15) defends in the first half at Entertainment & Sports Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Lauren Betts opened up her WNBA career on Saturday night with the Washington Mystics. She started at center for the team and led in scoring with 13 points. She struggled on offense only shooting 2-7 from the floor but she went 9-10 from the free-throw line. Betts also had six rebounds on the night and added one steal and one block. After being selected No. 4 in the WNBA Draft, she now begins her journey as a pro.

Betts has the ability to be an anchor on both ends of the floor. She is an elite defender that can block shots and her offensive game will continue to grow. She has good back to the basket ability and with a solid coaching staff, they could help tap into her offensive potential. But regardless of what she is able to do on that end early in her career. Her elite defense will make her a great pick.

Betts was one of the best players in the nation for UCLA in 2025. She was the best player on a team that won the NCAA championship. While having a tournament run, that was one of the best of all time. She began the season as the unanimous No. 1 pick. But continued to drop a few spots after a slow start to the season. She could easily become the best player of this draft, and no one would be surprised if she did.

The Mystics will have a little bit of a tough season. But with Betts and another UCLA draftee in Angela Dugalić at No. 9. The future is bright for this team as they start to build their team around Betts. Washington will have one more preseason game before starting their regular season. There should be plenty of double doubles to come for Betts with some big defensive nights with multiple blocks.

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