Los Angeles — Belgian guard Julie Vanloo, a two-time EuroBasket champion and Olympic veteran, finds herself in a familiar yet high-stakes position as the WNBA season looms. Just days before the league’s May 14 tip-off, the Los Angeles Sparks have cut Vanloo from their roster, leaving her with a 48-hour window to either sign a new contract or find another team. The move marks a dramatic turnaround for a player who was still considered a key part of the Sparks’ preseason plans just weeks ago.

Vanloo, 33, had been signed to a training camp contract by the Sparks in April, joining a team that had already made waves with international talent. Her experience at the highest levels of international basketball—including gold medals with Belgium at EuroBasket 2023 and 2025—made her a standout candidate for a roster spot. However, as the final cuts approach, the Sparks have decided to move on, leaving Vanloo in a race against time to secure her future in the WNBA.

“Julie’s familiarity with our group and ability to lead and win at the highest levels of international basketball make her a strong addition to our camp roster,” Sparks General Manager Raegan Pebley said in April. “She meets our standard for experienced, competitive players and elevates our environment heading into training camp.” Yet, as the roster solidified, Vanloo was not among those retained for the regular season.

What Happened: The 48-Hour Window

The WNBA’s roster rules allow teams to carry 12 players at the start of the season, but the final roster must be submitted by May 13, 2024. Vanloo was cut from the Sparks’ roster, meaning she now has until the deadline to either sign a new contract with the Sparks or be claimed by another team in the league’s expansion draft process. If no team claims her, she will not play in the WNBA this season.

What we have is not the first time Vanloo has faced such uncertainty. After being drafted by the Golden State Valkyries in the 2025 Expansion Draft, she was traded to the Sparks, where she spent the 2024 season as a backup guard. Her career stats reflect her experience: over 75 career WNBA games, averaging 5.2 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.

Why It Matters: A Career at the Crossroads

Vanloo’s situation is a microcosm of the WNBA’s roster dynamics, where depth charts can shift dramatically in the final days before the season. For a player of her caliber and international pedigree, the stakes are high. A roster spot means a chance to contribute to a playoff push, while being left unsigned could force her to consider overseas options or even retirement.

“This can lead to new opportunities,” former Belgian national team player Ann Wauters told Belgian media. “Julie has proven she can compete at the highest level. If one door closes, another will open.” Yet, the clock is ticking. With the season set to begin on May 14, Vanloo’s next move will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and teams alike.

Numbers That Explain the Story

• 48 hours: The window Vanloo has to secure a roster spot.
• May 13, 2024: Deadline for WNBA teams to finalize rosters.
• May 14, 2024: Start of the 2024 WNBA regular season.
• $277,500: Vanloo’s reported salary for the 2026 season, per Spotrac.
• 75 games: Vanloo’s career WNBA games played to date.

What’s Next: The Road Ahead

Vanloo’s immediate focus is on securing a roster spot. If she remains unsigned, she could be claimed by another team or forced to sit out the season. Meanwhile, the Sparks will look to finalize their roster, with several international players already in camp, including A’ja Wilson and Nneka Ogwumike.

The WNBA season kicks off on May 14, with the Sparks hosting the Phoenix Mercury at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The game is scheduled for 7:00 PM local time (UTC-7), marking the official start of the league’s 28th season.

How to Follow

For updates on Vanloo’s status, follow official WNBA sources and team announcements. The league’s roster moves are typically announced via team press releases and official WNBA communications. Fans can also track Vanloo’s social media accounts for personal updates.

Key Takeaways

• Julie Vanloo has been cut by the Los Angeles Sparks and now has 48 hours to secure a roster spot.
• The WNBA season begins on May 14, with the Sparks hosting the Phoenix Mercury.
• Vanloo’s international experience and leadership could make her a valuable addition for any team.
• Her status will be determined by May 13, 2024, the league’s roster deadline.
• If unsigned, she could be claimed by another team or forced to sit out the season.

As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on Vanloo’s next move. For a player who has spent her career chasing greatness, this could be the moment that defines her WNBA legacy.

What do you think will happen next for Julie Vanloo? Share your thoughts in the comments below.