WNBA general managers have expressed high expectations for Dominique Malonga, recognizing her potential as a future star in the league. In the annual GM survey, a majority selected her as the rookie likely to become the best player in five years. The Seattle Storm chose the six-foot-six center with the second overall pick in the 2025 draft, which they secured through a complex trade involving Jewell Loyd and Kelsey Plum.
The Storm traded Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces, who then sent Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks. As part of the deal, Seattle acquired the coveted second pick and Li Yueru. While Loyd, a franchise cornerstone and two-time WNBA champion, had requested a trade after a tough 2024 season, the move ultimately paved the way for the Storm to select Malonga.
Born in Cameroon and moving to Paris at age ten, Malonga began her professional career at just 15 with ASVL. Club owner Tony Parker compared her to Victor Wembanyama, citing their remarkable talents for their height. However, Malonga seeks to carve her own identity on the court rather than be defined by such comparisons.
Malonga’s unique skill set and high ceiling suggest she could indeed become the standout rookie of 2025, alongside other talented players like Paige Bueckers. Her versatility on the court is impressive, especially considering she is still a teenager.
The Storm’s 2024 season fell short of expectations despite the addition of veterans like Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike, leading to early playoff elimination. However, the front office has responded by retaining key players and positioning Malonga as the future centerpiece of the franchise. Having grown up idolizing Breanna Stewart, expectations are high for Malonga to lead Seattle back to a championship-winning path. The team’s future looks bright with this promising young talent at the helm.