In the world of college basketball, where stars emerge from the smallest corners of the globe, the story of Gandy Malou Mamel is a testament to how far talent and determination can take a player. Her journey from the basketball backwaters of Ireland to Connecticut, with one of the most storied programs in NCAA history is nothing short of extraordinary.

As UConn’s coaching staff and fans gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes are on Gandy to see how her unique blend of athleticism, raw talent, and untapped potential will shape the Huskies’ path to greatness. But who exactly is Gandy Malou Mamel, the player set to make waves for the Huskies?

Born in Limerick, Ireland, to parents who fled the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gandy’s story is one of resilience and unexpected beginnings. Initially drawn to soccer, her introduction to basketball came in fifth grade during a physical education class. “I found it much more fun,” she recalls. “Less waiting for a score. I loved running up and down.” This late start fueled her passion, and by age 15, she was pursuing the sport seriously.

However, with limited resources and competition in Ireland, her development stalled as scrimmages replaced structured drills. Realizing she needed greater challenges, Gandy set her sights on playing in the U.S. Though her ambition was clear, the path seemed distant. As a senior at Gill St. Bernard’s School in New Jersey, she averaged 7.5 points and 6.9 rebounds over 27 games, yet didn’t make ESPN’s list of top 60 players for the class of 2025.

So how did Gandy make her way to UConn?

A Chance Encounter for Gandy Malou Mamel

Her breakthrough came, thanks to a coincident with Kieran Quinn, a former player on the Irish national team, who was impressed by her speed and agility while watching video footage. “Quinn recalls the moment as a bolt of lightning,” Zanetto said.

“‘Who the hell is that?’ he thought as he watched Gandy tear up and down the court with her unmatched speed.” Despite COVID-19 travel restrictions, Quinn was determined to bring Gandy to the U.S. He arranged for her to showcase her skills in Connecticut, and even though the footage was less than ideal, Gandy’s potential shone through. Quinn knew he had found something special.

Gandy’s 6’5″ frame and seven-foot wingspan were just the beginning of what made her stand out. Her ability to run the floor and defend with tenacity made her a perfect fit for UConn’s high-paced basketball system. “Her athleticism, particularly her rebounding and defensive skills, are highlighted as key strengths that she brings to UConn,” Zanetto emphasized. Gandy finished third in rebounding at the U20 Euros in Division B, a testament to her ability to secure possessions and dominate the boards, a crucial skill in UConn’s strategy.

The Path to Glory

For UConn fans, Gandy represents more than just another international recruit. She’s a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, a player whose journey mirrors the broader trend of international recruitment in college basketball.

Yet, for all her potential, Gandy remains a work in progress. Her numbers may not leap off the page—0.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game—but they don’t tell the full story. Gandy’s agility, ability to run rim-to-rim, and knack for securing rebounds will serve her well as she adjusts to the American game. 

Her arrival at UConn marks the continuation of her journey that started with a serendipitous discovery and has blossomed into something much bigger. Quinn’s determination, Gandy’s relentless work ethic, and her family’s unwavering support have all paved the way for her to play on one of the biggest stages in college basketball. 

For the Huskies, Gandy is not just the next player in line—she might just be the next big hope for championship glory alongside the already high-octane roster starring the projected first-overall pick of the 2025 WNBA draft: Paige Bueckers.