Last Updated on June 17, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Washington Mystics are one of the WNBA’s original franchises and have been closely connected to Washington’s NBA ownership groups throughout their history. Since entering the league in 1998, the franchise has benefited from long-term ownership stability and significant investment in women’s basketball.

Abe Pollin and Washington Sports Ownership (1998–2010)

The Mystics were founded in 1998 by Abe Pollin, the longtime owner of the NBA’s Washington Wizards. As part of Pollin’s sports portfolio, the Mystics became one of the WNBA’s early expansion franchises and helped establish professional women’s basketball in the nation’s capital.

During Pollin’s ownership, the franchise developed into a regular playoff contender and built a strong local following.

Pollin Family Estate (2010)

Following Abe Pollin’s death in 2009, ownership of the Mystics briefly passed through his estate while arrangements were made for the sale of the team’s parent sports organization.

Ted Leonsis and Monumental Sports & Entertainment (2010–Present)

In 2010, businessman Ted Leonsis acquired the Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics, and related sports properties through Monumental Sports & Entertainment.

Under Leonsis’ ownership, the Mystics experienced the most successful period in franchise history. Significant investments were made in facilities, player resources, and organizational infrastructure. The opening of the Entertainment and Sports Arena provided the team with a dedicated home venue and training facilities.

The Mystics reached multiple WNBA Finals appearances during this era and captured their first championship in 2019 behind stars Elena Delle Donne, Emma Meesseman, Kristi Toliver, and Natasha Cloud.

Washington Mystics Owners at a Glance

  • Abe Pollin and Washington Sports Ownership (1998–2010)
  • Pollin Family Estate (2010)
  • Ted Leonsis / Monumental Sports & Entertainment (2010–Present)

The Mystics have enjoyed a relatively simple ownership history marked by stability and long-term investment. From Abe Pollin’s role in founding the franchise to Ted Leonsis’ stewardship during the team’s championship era, the organization has grown into one of the WNBA’s premier franchises.