“For now, people talk about me because of the dunk, but I assure you I can do more.” That’s how Dominique Malonga introduced herself. They’re calling her the “female Victor Wembanyama”–and for good reason. Even Tony Parker sees the similarities. Malonga and Wemby both grew up in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris, often sharing the same courts and tournaments. And once you see her play, the comparison feels spot on. Standing 6’6″, Malonga was snapped up by the Seattle Storm with the number 2 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The Storm are banking on the French International to be their next franchise star, but fans were left surprised by a surprising development.

Malonga has been playing professional basketball since she was just 15 years old, after signing with Tony Parker’s team, ASVEL Féminin, straight out of France’s famous INSEP academy. And she’s been making noise ever since. Right now, she’s averaging 15 points and 10.3 rebounds per game in France’s top league. On top of that, she’s already made the French Olympic team and helped them win a silver medal. That’s an impressive CV for a 19-year-old. But Storm fans weren’t ready for what was about to come!

On Sunday, training camps officially opened across the league. Most players hit the court with their new teammates, gearing up for the season ahead. But some absences stood out. One of them being Dominique Malonga! According to ESPN’s Kevin Pelton, the 19-year-old center missed the Storm’s first practice, and right now, there’s no clear timetable for when she’ll join the team!

Storm fans weren’t thrilled with the news, and it didn’t take long for the questions to start flooding in. Concerns over Malonga’s availability quickly took over social media. Let’s dive into some of those reactions and try to break it all down!

Fans wonder why Dominique Malonga didn’t turn up for the training camp

Fans were quick to react on X, confused about what was happening. One fan asked, “What the he-k? When did training camp become optional?” Another joined in, wondering, “Is she having a problem getting a work visa?”

While it’s easy to worry, Seattle head coach Noelle Quinn shared a small update that should calm some nerves. “We’re in communication with her,” Quinn said. “We’ll get some updates this week.” Sounds like the Storm are handling the situation just fine. There’s more to this story, however. Since Malonga has less than three years of WNBA experience, she isn’t affected by the league’s prioritization rule. The rule says players with three or more years in the WNBA must report by training camp or May 1 — or they could be fined or suspended.

Malonga just finished playing in the LFB playoffs, so it makes sense if she’s taking a little time before starting her WNBA journey. Plus, to ease any worries, she already signed her rookie contract back on April 18. All signs point to her suiting up for the Storm this season! Seattle fans have no reason to panic. As one fan perfectly put it, “Bro relax, give her a week or two before jumping into a whole different league again.” Malonga is probably just taking some much-needed time to rest and recharge. After all, nobody wants to risk an injury right before her big debut!

Fans are really excited to see what Malonga will bring to Seattle! One fan said, “Fans eagerly awaiting,” showing how much they’re looking forward to her debut. Another fan joined in, “I hope that she plays for Seattle this summer. She will be the only reason why I would watch any Storm games.”

Gone are the days of Breanna Stewart leading the Storm to championships. Star guard Jewell Loyd has moved on as well. But right now, all eyes are on the number 2 pick, Dominique Malonga. Fans see her as the future of the franchise, and for good reason. With the Storm heavily counting on Malonga this season, they’ll be hoping she’s fully ready to go once her holiday ends. Can she bring the glory back to Seattle? Only time will tell! Stay tuned for more updates!