Dominique Malonga: France’s Rising Star Sets Sights on World Championship Glory

VILLEURBANNE, France – Dominique Malonga, the 20-year-old phenom captivating the basketball world, is focused on leading France to a potential championship title at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. The Seattle Storm guard, who recently made history as the first French player to dunk in an official senior national team game, embodies a new era of French basketball, blending athleticism, skill and a grounded approach to the game.

The historic dunk occurred on March 11th during a FIBA World Cup qualifying match against the Philippines. Malonga, recalling her journey, shared that she first dunked at the age of 14, stating, “It’s something I’ve had in me for a long time and is now natural. I hope to score more.” This milestone moment, captured and celebrated globally, underscores her unique impact on the sport.

From Ligue Féminine de Basketball to the WNBA

Malonga’s path to prominence has been swift. Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, she represents France internationally, building a reputation for her versatility as a power forward and center. She began her professional career with ASVEL Féminin in 2021, quickly gaining attention for her athleticism. A loan to Tarbes Gespe Bigorre for the 2023-24 season allowed her to further develop her game, averaging 11.9 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

Her talent didn’t proceed unnoticed across the Atlantic. In 2025, Malonga was selected second overall in the WNBA draft by the Seattle Storm, becoming a key player for the team. She quickly made her mark, becoming the youngest player in WNBA history to reach 100 points scored. Malonga emphasizes a team-first mentality, stating, “Basketball is a team sport, so my objectives are first collective. I would like to win a title with the Seattle Storm as It’s a very competitive team. I wish to be a player who makes his team win and if the collective victories reach, the personal distinctions will follow.”

Silver Medalists Aim Higher

The recent qualification of the French national team for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup has fueled Malonga’s ambition. Coming off a silver medal performance at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the team is determined to reach the pinnacle of international basketball. Malonga confidently asserts, “The world championship title is clearly an ambition. If our team is at full strength, One can compete with the Americans.” This statement reflects a growing belief within the French program that they can challenge the long-standing dominance of the United States in women’s basketball.

Malonga’s impact extends beyond her scoring and rebounding. Her athleticism and ability to create highlight-reel plays, like her historic dunk, have generated excitement and drawn new fans to the sport in France. She was the youngest member of the French Olympic team in 2024, demonstrating her maturity and poise on the biggest stage.

Staying Grounded Amidst Rising Fame

Despite the accolades and increasing attention, Malonga remains remarkably grounded. She acknowledges the positive feedback she receives but prioritizes a pragmatic approach, focusing on consistent work and tangible results. “Everything that is said about me pleases me, but I am a pragmatic person. I try to stay focused on my work because what matters is the factual,” she explained.

A crucial part of her support system is her family, particularly her parents, both former basketball players. She maintains close contact with them, seeking their guidance and perspective. “They assist me a lot, I always call them before and after my matches. They have a certain life experience and it’s great to have them by my side,” Malonga shared, highlighting the importance of family in navigating the pressures of professional sports.

Malonga’s story is one of rapid ascent, fueled by talent, dedication, and a strong support network. As she continues to develop her game with the Seattle Storm and prepares for the 2026 FIBA World Cup, Dominique Malonga is poised to become a leading figure in women’s basketball for years to come.

The French team will look to build on their Olympic success and translate that momentum into a championship run. With Malonga leading the charge, the future looks bright for French basketball.

Next Up: Dominique Malonga and the Seattle Storm begin their 2026 WNBA season in May. Fans can follow updates and schedules on the official WNBA website ([https://www.wnba.com/](https://www.wnba.com/)).

What are your thoughts on Dominique Malonga’s potential? Share your predictions in the comments below!