Eight French players registered for WNBA training camps

There have never been so many French players in the WNBA. A golden young generation – similar to the one taking over the NBA – is expanding the contingent. Additionally, the Federation has now given these players the green light to combine their careers across the Atlantic with international campaigns for Team France. With the growing appeal of the American league for young players who see it as a dream, all ingredients were in place.

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For this 2025 edition, 8 French players are registered for various training camps. However, not all are guaranteed a contract at the end. This number could have been even higher without the absences of Iliana Rupert (who should join Golden State during the season), Seehia Ridard (recently operated on) or Lou Lopez Sénéchal (personal decision). The 8 registered players share being pre-selected in the extended group for EuroBasket 2025, and may potentially need to step away mid-season. Camps launched this Sunday, April 27, and the regular season will begin May 16.

Golden State Valkyries: Carla Leite, Janelle Salaün and Migna Touré

It’s the most French – and even European – of WNBA franchises. The brand new Golden State Valkyries selected two French players (Rupert and Leite) in their expansion Draft in December 2024, and added two more (Salaün and Touré) with non-guaranteed contracts for training camp. Carla Leite (5’9″, 21) joined Oakland a week ago, once Villeneuve d’Ascq’s safety was secured. For her rookie season, she’ll have to compete in a roster loaded with guards.

As for Janelle Salaün (6’2″, 23) and Migna Touré (6’0″, 30), they are technically still playing their season with Schio and Girona. While the former will stay with her team until the end of Italian playoffs, the latter was able to leave her Spanish team to join the United States. They will need to prove themselves during training camp and earn their contract for the regular season. Regarding #5 Draft pick Juste Jocyte, her presence across the Atlantic this season is uncertain. For Iliana Rupert (6’4″, 23), according to our information, the plan is for her to join the team after the Euro.

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