In a move that practically left WNBA fans clutching their pearls, the Washington Mystics bid farewell to long-time general manager Mike Thibault and his son, head coach Eric, in one fell swoop. Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger—known for revamping the NBA’s Washington Wizards—has set his sights on rebuilding the Mystics from the ground up, with a dash of discipline and a heavy dose of draft picks. The last time the Mystics had such a shake-up was in 2012, and let’s just say this: Winger’s not here to play it safe.
So, what’s next for a team already accustomed to the Thibault regime’s winning ways? Well, the Mystics are stepping into uncharted territory as the WNBA itself goes through its most seismic transformation in history. The league is turning heads with record viewership, huge rookie class hype, and—wait for it—three new expansion teams set to make their debut over the next two seasons. The league is even bumping the regular season to 44 games in 2025 and making the Finals a best-of-seven series, because, apparently, “go big or go home” is the new motto. With a $2.2 billion media rights deal inked and a new collective bargaining agreement pending, the stakes (and player salaries) are climbing to dizzying heights.
Winger’s strategy? Well, if his work with the Wizards is any clue, buckle up. He’s already known for trading big-name players like Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porziņģis in exchange for—yes, you guessed it—draft picks. Wizards fans are well aware of his cautious, “build from scratch” approach, a method requiring patience and nerves of steel. Will this go over well in the Mystics’ camp? Only time will tell. Winger dropped hints that the Mystics’ makeover will involve a culture centered on what he calls “competition, accountability, excellence, togetherness, and joy.” Yes, joy—he’s aiming for the rare workplace vibe where the team enjoys showing up, even when they’re losing.
With a roster featuring talents like Ariel Atkins, Brittney Sykes, and franchise legend Elena Delle Donne, the Mystics still have the potential for a superstar lineup. But many of these players could enter free agency after the 2025 season, including restricted free agent Shakira Austin. Winger is clearly in search of leaders who can bring both skill and positivity—think less “team diva” and more “team cheerleader.” And unlike many WNBA teams, he’s willing to consider candidates without league experience, mirroring recent hires like Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts, who came over from the NBA. This could spell a radically fresh approach, or it might just leave everyone on the bench scratching their heads.
So, what should fans expect? A fun season of guessing, lots of draft-day drama, and maybe even some unexpected twists in the hiring process. Until then, Winger will be busy crafting a long-term vision with the Mystics. But knowing him, don’t expect a final destination just yet—because in this league, and in this kind of rebuild, it’s all about the journey