In 2001 WNBA Draft, the Seattle Storm selected a then-19-year-old 6-foot-5 international big with ahead-of-her-time abilities as a three-level scorer and game-altering defender as the No. 1 pick. Things worked out pretty well during Lauren Jackson’s 12 seasons in a Storm uniform. In addition to compiling an illustrious individual resume that featured three MVPs, a Finals MVP, one DPOY, eight All-WNBA nods, five All-Defense selections, seven All-Star nominations and three scoring crowns, the Aussie led Seattle to a pair of titles in 2004 and 2010.
24 years later, could history begin repeating itself in Seattle?
In the 2025 WNBA Draft, the Storm selected Dominique Malonga, a 19-year-old and 6-foot-6 French phenom, with the No. 2 overall pick. She oozes potential, possessing a skill set that introduces new horizons and heights to women’s basketball. She weds the talents of a traditional big—rim running, low-post scoring and shot blocking—with ball-handling and shooting potential that could exceed that of the sport’s best primary perimeter stars. And yes, she can dunk—with ease.
Went to watch Dominique Malonga — the No. 2 pick in the WNBA Draft — work out in NYC. Blown away by how talented she is. 6’6, 7’1 wingspan, huge hands. Dunks with ease. Makes…
