With the 2026 WNBA season just a few months away, the expansion teams are seemingly making aggressive strides in signing players. After Portland unveiled its official team name and logo back in July,
As some reports hinted, French basketball star Pauline Astier is beginning to attract serious attention from WNBA scouts as the league eyes its next wave of international talent. The 23-year-old guard, known for her sharp perimeter shooting and playmaking skills, has quickly become one of the most intriguing prospects from Europe not yet on a WNBA roster.
Portland Fire And Toronto Tempo Eyeing Pauline Astier’s WNBA Services
With the league preparing for expansion in 2026, both the Portland and Toronto are said to be watching Astier’s progress closely. Her name has surfaced on multiple scouting reports, hinting that she could soon make the leap across the Atlantic.
As teams look to balance their rosters with experienced overseas talent, Astier’s development in France has put her in a strong position to secure a future WNBA spot. However, that comes from a very well-earned season. Astier’s recent performances in France’s top division have drawn comparisons to several current WNBA guards who began their careers overseas.
🚨 PAULINE ASTIER NE FERME PAS LA PORTE À LA WNBA 🚨
— Who Got Next? (@Who_Got_Next_) October 10, 2025
Après sa victoire face à Bourges avec Prague en Euroleague, Pauline Astier s’exprime sur l’éventualité de jouer en WNBA 🔥
Retrouvez l’ITW complète prochainement sur YouTube 👀 pic.twitter.com/2vGZuku6P1
Her ability to control tempo and create off the dribble is what caught the attention of both Portland and Toronto, two franchises gearing up for their debut seasons. In particular, the Portland Fire are believed to be building a roster that blends athleticism and high-IQ play. Astier fits that vision well. According to High Post Hoops, scouts view her as a “steady floor general” who could handle backcourt minutes right away.
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Meanwhile, the Tempo are exploring multiple international options, aiming to form a roster that connects global talent with young American players. Statistically, Astier’s recent campaign for Tango Bourges Basket is something the teams could get hints from.
She averaged double-digit points and shot efficiently from deep while leading her team to playoff contention. Her experience against elite competition in EuroLeague Women offers the kind of preparation expansion teams often value. That said, both the Fire and the Tempo have increased their scouting presence in Europe over the past few months.
Portland Fire Aggressively Hiring Ahead Of WNBA Debut
While both teams are pacing up their management to shape a worthy team, the Portland Fire, in general, are making some aggressive moves lately. As reported earlier, Portland is finalizing the hire of a former Golden State Valkyries executive to serve as its new general manager.
The front office is shaping up the team’s commitment to building a sustainable roster from day one. With expansion plans underway, Portland aims to make its debut season a standout year. The franchise is reportedly scouting both domestic and international talent, with Astier’s name among the top candidates for a developmental or draft spot. If she continues her upward trend in Europe, she could find herself wearing a WNBA jersey sooner than expected.