1 week Ago By SAM
has been dominating in Europe, and now she's making her move to the . At just 19 years old, she's already drawn comparisons to some of the game's greats, and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike is already calling her "the steal of the draft." Malonga has never played in the American college system, but that hasn't stopped her from building a resume worthy of serious attention.
She played a key role for France's national team during their silver-medal run at the , making her the youngest player on that stacked roster. She also turned heads in France's professional league playing for ASVEL Feminin, averaging 15.4 points, 10.
3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Even before her eligibility, Dominique was being hyped as the "Female Wemby," a nod to fellow French star .
That compliment came from none other than former NBA champion and ASVEL owner . Clearly, the expectations are sky-high-and not without reason. A 6'6" sleeper with superstar upside Standing at 6-foot-6 and blessed with advanced footwork and finesse, Malonga's game has matured far beyond her years.
Ogwumike described her unique skills on-air. "I'm going to tell you who is going to be the steal of the draft: A 6'6", 19-year-old French post player by the name of . I always say good players have go-to moves.
Great players have countermoves. She gets the ball outside of three, she rips through," Ogwumike said. "[Malonga] is already, again, 19 years old with these types of moves.
This is going to be a player that can actually be slept on, but also will make a tremendous impact in the W." That impact may come sooner than later, especially considering the confidence carries. In a recent sit-down with , Malonga listed as one of her inspirations.
"Stewie of course because I really love how smooth she is," she said, highlighting 's signature fadeaway as her own favorite move. But Dominique didn't stop there-she's already setting her sights on elite competition. "I won't say nervous.
I would say I can't wait to play them," she said, when asked about squaring off against stars like A'ja Wilson and Brittney Griner. "Because it's great, great player when I think about ." That eagerness to go toe-to-toe with the best shows just how ready Malonga is for the challenge.
Wilson, a two-time MVP and WNBA champion with the , has carved out a dominant legacy already, while Griner remains one of the most intimidating defenders in the league. Still, Malonga isn't shying away from the moment..
