International sensation Dominique Malonga is ready to set the U.S. basketball scene ablaze with her spectacular defences, rebounding, swift thinking, and exposure. The 19-year-old averaged 2.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game to win silver at the 2024 Olympics and became a global star overnight. Popularly known as the “female Victor Wembanyama“ by ASVEL Féminin President Tony Parker, the French player began her first season ever at 2021-22 by scoring a whopping 6 points and 7 rebounds in seven games! 

A strong contender after Paige Bueckers, Malonga is a hot favourite for the WNBA drafting committee this season. With all eyes on where the promising star can land, let us understand what Dominique Malonga’s 2024-25 draft projections look like.

1. Phoenix Mercury

Known for a roster comprising the most respectable veteran players, the Phoenix Mercury wants a young, versatile forward who can easily defend and dominate the paint. They are in dire need of a player who can step in as a long-term successor to Brittney Griner and gradually lead them. 

Being a part of this team comes as a big opportunity for Dominique Malonga. Her 6’6” height, lightning-shot-blocking abilities, and rebounding prowess will make her a natural heir after Griner. Well, she could be one of the luckiest players to learn from team veterans who can mold her into a defensive anchor for the Phoenix Mercury. 

2. Los Angeles Sparks

As the most successful team in the WNBA’s history, Los Angeles Sparks has a mix of young and old recruits on its roster. However, it has been rebuilding its image for quite some time now. They are on the lookout for a young player who can bring about a strong interior presence on the court. 

And the Cameron native would be the right fit for the Sparks. She would immediately improve their rim protection techniques and positively impact the overall rebounding quality. This high-ceiling international talent carries professional experience and immense potential to be recruited into the team. 

3. Indiana Fever

One of the finest WNBA teams at the moment, the Indiana Fever has always been the most open and welcoming to young talent. However, the team wants a reigning forward player on the frontcourt. They are precisely looking for someone who can be paired up with their key contributor, Aliyah Boston, to create a dominating frontcourt.

With a defence-first system and a massively developed player, Malonga would be an asset for the team. The Olympic star will bring an international depth and understanding of basketball to the court. Just imagine what would happen once this ability complements the skills of the existing young core like Caitlin Clark! The Indiana Fever would be unstoppable!

4. Chicago Sky

The Chicago Sky is currently undergoing significant transitions and needs post players to fill their roster. They are invested in rebuilding a more youth-centric team after some veterans made their respective exits in 2021. Having said that, this opportunity knocked at a perfect time for Malonga to make a swift entry to the roster.

A strong combination of physical strength and rebounding abilities, the French star’s skills align with Chicago’s aggressive style. Malonga alone could get big minutes early as the team continues to reshape its identity. Who knows, she can eventually become the face of the team!

5. Seattle Storm

Centred around key players like Ezi Magbegor and Jewell Loyd, the Seattle Storm is searching for frontcourt help in this 2024-25 WNBA drafting season. A solid front-court player, the team is a good match for Malonga’s strengths. Moreover, the team will groom her into a strong defence specialist and a post-scorer under Seattle head coach Noelle Quinn.

Who better than Malonga for the Storm? The 2024 MVP of the month carries a demonstrative international experience and a remarkable size. This can prove beneficial for the team, where she can shine as a back up or as a partner with Magbegor on the court. If drafted, it will be interesting to see the duo perform together.