Washington Mystics acquire Elena Delle Donne in blockbuster deal

The Washington Mystics acquired 2015 WNBA Most Valuable Player Elena Delle Donne from the Chicago Sky on Thursday for All-Star center Stefanie Dolson, guard Kahleah Copper and the second overall pick in this year's draft.

Delle Donne, who is a three-time All-Star, averaged 21.5 points and seven rebounds per game last season before thumb surgery ended her campaign.

"I'm really excited about this next chapter in my career with the Mystics," Delle Donne said in a statement. "Coach (Mike) Thibault, (owner Ted) Leonsis and (president Sheila) Johnson have built a strong team that is ready to make a significant impact in the league and I'm thrilled to be a part of it."

Delle Donne will have her work cut out for her as the Mystics finished 13-21 last season.

"Clearly, this is one of the biggest moves in the history of this organization," Thibault said in a statement. "In only four years, Elena has established herself as one of the premier players in the world, as evidenced by her MVP season two years ago. Her impact on and off the court will be invaluable."

The deal moves Delle Donne closer to her Delaware home, an important aspect as the star left the University of Connecticut after just two days to be closer to her family -- including sister Lizzie, who is blind, deaf and has cerebral palsy. Delle Donne promptly enrolled at Delaware to complete her collegiate career.

After being selected with the second overall pick of the 2013 draft, the 6-foot-5 forward has split her time between Chicago and Delaware.

Delle Donne continues to deal with the lingering effects of Lyme disease, which she has battled since 2008.

Chicago coach and general manager Amber Stocks was pleased to acquire Dolson and Copper in a bid to improve the team.

"The acquisition of these two players and the second overall pick in the upcoming draft gives us three outstanding pieces that make our lineup stronger, deeper and better," Stocks said in a statement, via the Chicago Tribune. "Our focus is to enhance the championship culture and winning mindset with our talented roster of strong players."