19 year old Cameroonian-Born Dominique Malonga Takes WNBA by Storm as No. 2 Pick
At just 19, Dominique Malonga has already carved her place in basketball history. Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and subsequently raised in France, her path to stardom is remarkable. As a result of her exceptional talent, the Seattle Storm selected her second overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Consequently, she’s expected to make an immediate impact.
Malonga was born on November 16, 2005, in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Her parents, both former basketball players, initially fueled her passion for the game. At age 10, her family moved to France, which launched her basketball journey in earnest. Due to her height and athletic gifts, she quickly caught scouts’ attention. Soon after, she enrolled at France’s prestigious national sports academy, INSEP.
By 15, Malonga had signed with ASVEL Féminin, a top team in France’s premier league. During her time at ASVEL, she showed tremendous growth. Specifically, she averaged 15.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in the 2024-25 season. Furthermore, she made history as the first Frenchwoman to dunk in an official game. This milestone occurred during a EuroCup Women match on October 31, 2024.
Her skills shine beyond club competition as well. In fact, she represented France in many international tournaments. These included, most notably, the 2024 Summer Olympics. There, she helped secure a silver medal as the team’s youngest member. Additionally, she excelled in youth competitions. Through her performances in the FIBA U16 and U17 European Championships, she built her impressive reputation.
The Seattle Storm saw Malonga’s exceptional potential. Therefore, they made her the second pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her unique mix of size, agility, and skill often draws comparisons to NBA star Victor Wembanyama. Nevertheless, Malonga focuses on creating her own legacy and distinctive style.
Moreover, she joins a growing group of Cameroonian players in the WNBA. Previously, Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu paved the way in 2023. In particular, she became the first Cameroonian woman in the league, also drafted by the Storm. Together, they successfully showcase Cameroonian talent in women’s basketball.
As her WNBA career begins, fans and analysts alike watch with excitement. Indeed, her commitment and skills make her a potential cornerstone for the Storm. Eventually, she may become a worldwide ambassador for the league.
