Dominique Malonga – WNBA News, Rumors & Updates, Stats

Who is Dominique Malonga?

Dominique Malonga is one of the most anticipated rookies in the 2025 WNBA season. A 6’6″ French center with extraordinary athleticism and versatility, she was selected 2nd overall by the Seattle Storm. At just 19, Malonga has already earned a reputation as a game-changing talent—a rare blend of size, skill, and international success.

Dominique Malonga – Quick Facts

Early Life & European Career

• Born: November 16, 2005, in Yaoundé, Cameroon, raised in France.

• Daughter of athletic parents—her mother played pro basketball in Cameroon, her father also played at a high level.

• Began pro career early, signing with ASVEL Féminin (Lyon, France) at age 15. Known for her mobility and presence, she earned the nickname “the female Wembanyama.”

• Played on loan at Tarbes Gespe Bigorre during the 2023–24 season, averaging 11.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.

• Known for dunking in top-tier European competition—a milestone for French women’s basketball.

• Led France to silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics and starred in FIBA youth tournaments.

  WNBA Career – 2025 Rookie Season

  • Drafted 2nd overall by the Seattle Storm in 2025, making history as the youngest player ever drafted into the WNBA.

  • 2025 Season Averages:

    • 4.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 0.8 assists in 9.5 minutes per game, shooting nearly 50% from the field. � laying solid rookie minutes in a deep rotation.

  • Notable Record: Became the youngest WNBA player to reach 100 career points and 100 rebounds, doing so in just 27 games.

  • Shows flashes of dominance in limited time, with strong finishing ability, athleticism, and rebounding instincts.

    Playing Style & Impact

    • Physical Tools: At 6’6″ with a 7’1″ wingspan, Malonga offers elite rim protection, rebounding, and finishing over defenders.

    • Athleticism & Breadth of Skills: She moves with fluidity uncommon for her size—blazing in transition, defending multiple positions, and showing advanced on-ball skills.

    • Versatility: Capable of handling the ball, finishing plays in space, and defending both interiors and perimeter threats. Seattle plans to develop her alongside veterans like Nneka Ogwumike and Alysha Clark.

      Career Highlights & Achievements

      • 2nd Overall Pick in 2025 WNBA Draft (Seattle Storm)

      • Youngest WNBA Player to Reach 100 Points & 100 Rebounds

      • Olympic Silver Medalist (France, 2024)

      • First Frenchwoman to Dunk in EuroCup

      • FIBA U17 World Cup All-Star Team Member (2022) and led in efficiency.