Youngest Player Drafted in WNBA History
Dominique Malonga has made WNBA history. At just 19 years old, she became the youngest player ever drafted into the league. The Seattle Storm picked her second overall, making her the team’s highest draft selection since 2016.
Standing at 6-foot-6, Malonga brings size, power, and athleticism to the court. Her name caught attention worldwide after a video of her dunking at just 16 went viral. Since then, fans and scouts have kept their eyes on her.
Cameroonian Roots and French Development
Malonga was born in Yaoundé, Cameroon. At 15, she moved to France to join ASVEL Féminin, a team owned by former NBA star Tony Parker. He nicknamed her the “Female Wemby,” comparing her to French NBA star Victor Wembanyama.
Since joining the French league, Malonga has become one of the brightest young stars. Last October, she became the first French woman to dunk in a professional game—another groundbreaking moment for women’s basketball.
Strong Season Stats and Growing Skill Set
Malonga’s recent season with Lyon ASVEL Féminin proved why she’s such a top prospect. She averaged 15.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Her shot-blocking and low-post moves stood out, and she continues to improve her outside shooting.
In the EuroCup Women’s competition, she led her team with 18.5 points and 11 rebounds per game. Her performance helped push the team deep into the tournament, showing she can deliver under pressure.
A Proud Moment for French Basketball
During her post-draft interview, Malonga shared what the moment meant to her.
“I was so proud to achieve that goal,” she said. “It just showed that French basketball has evolved. It’s not only men. It’s also women. French basketball is at a level we’ve never seen.”
Her words reflect her passion not only for the game but for representing her country. She joins a growing list of international stars proving that basketball is truly a global sport.
Family Support and Emotional Reactions
The draft night was full of emotion for Malonga and her family. She embraced her mother first, thanking her for the role she played in her journey.
“She is one of the reasons that I’m here today,” Malonga said. “And of course, my family—my dad, my brothers, and my sister—they’re everything to me.”
Her heartfelt response showed the deep gratitude and love she carries off the court, too.
Seattle Storm Looking Forward to Her Arrival
Although she’s been drafted, Malonga will return to France for now. Her team, Lyon ASVEL Féminin, is set to play in the EuroLeague quarterfinals on April 23. The Seattle Storm’s training camp starts shortly after on April 27.
Seattle Storm general manager Talisa Rhea expressed excitement and patience.
“We feel like she is a talent that is worth going through that process with,” Rhea said. “We will be thrilled to have her in Seattle as soon as she can get here.”
This makes Malonga the fifth non-American player to be picked within the top two selections of the WNBA draft.
Draft Rules and Eligibility for International Players
The WNBA allows international players to enter the draft if they turn 20 in the year of the draft. Malonga, born in 2005, will meet that requirement when she turns 20 in November. American college players, on the other hand, must turn 22 that same year to be eligible.
Her early entry gives her a unique edge. Not only does she bring talent, but she also brings years of potential growth ahead.
