Cassandre Prosper is learning that life in the WNBA moves at a different speed. The former Notre Dame standout is navigating a crowded Washington Mystics training camp.

Training camp already started for the Mystics on April 19, ahead of the scheduled preseason games. After putting in a few training sessions, Sports Illustrated reporter Deadria asked Prosper how she was adjusting to a new system in Washington.

"Ooh, I feel like the spacing is a little bit different than in college, and the timing is very important. So offensively, that's the biggest adjustment, "The 20-year-old said.

There are different concepts like tagging, but really, the spacing and how we move it is a little bit different, and something that I'm not used to. But I feel like I'm learning pretty well… doing better every day." Prosper added.

Prosper launched her collegiate career earlier than usual at the University of Notre Dame in 2022. She established herself as a top talent after entering the 2024 Paris Olympics representing Canada.

Prosper followed that with a breakout senior year with the Fighting Irish, where she averaged career-highs of 13.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. She shot 49.2% from the floor and 73.8% from the free-throw line.

Most importantly, the 20-year-old started 36 games for Notre Dame, earned ACC Most Improved Player honours, and secured a spot on the All-ACC Second Team.

Basketball is the bread and butter of Prosper's family. Both of her parents played for Concordia University, while the Memphis Grizzlies drafted her brother, Olivier-Maxence, in 2023.

With Prosper’s addition to the Mystics squad, the siblings became the first Canadian-born duo to feature in both the WNBA and the NBA.

Meanwhile, it would seem like the 20-year-old would be the youngest out of the Mystics' crop, but one look at their training camp suggests a youth movement has launched in Washington.

Prosper is set to face a plethora of competition for a starting spot in the lineup.

The Washington Mystics Start Off Training Camp with 12 Rookies

Mystics players Kiki Iriafen, Georgia Amoore, and Lucy Olsen must have been confused to realise that they are now considered veterans at just 22 after entering training camp last week.

“We’re the young ones, but also the old ones at the same time, on this team.” Another second-year player, Madison Scott, said.

The Mystics' average WNBA experience in their current training camp is less than one season, as 18 of the invited players include 12 rookies among them, including Cassandre Prosper.

But that is not all, as four others were just rookies last year. Shakira Austin and Michaela Onyenwere are the only two players with more than one season of WNBA hoops under their belt.

The Mystics are in their biggest rebuild in recent years after stockpiling draft picks in recent years. Their biggest acquisition comes in the form of No.4 overall pick Lauren Betts, who safeguards their need for a big man for the foreseeable future.

It is still early days to identify Prosper's role in a young team filled with talent to the brim. But if she can carry on the momentum she showcased in her final season at Notre Dame, the 6'3 guard could be a handpicked choice for HC Sydney Johnson.

Do you think Cassandre Prosper has what it takes to earn a starting spot with the Washington Mystics?

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Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Utsav Gupta