Janelle Salaün is a French professional basketball player who currently plays forward for the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA and USK Praha in the Czech Republic. Known for her versatility, scoring, and defensive prowess, she is a rising star in both European and international basketball.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Janelle Illona Salaün
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Date of Birth: September 5, 2001
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Hometown: Paris, France
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Height: 6’2″ (1.88 m)
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Position: Forward
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Family: Both parents played basketball; brother Tidjane Salaün plays for the Charlotte Hornets
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Heritage: Guadeloupean descent
Professional Career
Europe
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Early Career:
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Trained at Centre Fédéral
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Signed first professional contract with Flammes Carolo in 2018
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Joined Villeneuve-d’Ascq the following year
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Villeneuve-d’Ascq (2020–2024):
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Became a key player, leading team to EuroLeague final and French League (LFB) championship in 2023–24
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Career highs: 24 points (2024), 13 rebounds (2023)
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Famila Schio (Italy, 2024–2025):
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Won Italian League championship
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Named Finals MVP: averaged 13.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.2 steals per game in finals
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Season averages: 13.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists in 27.3 minutes per game
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USK Praha (Czech Republic, 2025–2026):
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Signed for upcoming European season
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WNBA
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Golden State Valkyries (2025–present):
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Signed training camp contract in February 2025
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Made final roster despite missing camp due to Italian league finish
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Early WNBA performances: consistent double-digit scoring, multiple 18-point games
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Known for her versatility, three-point shooting, and defensive impact
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National Team Career
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France National Team:
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Member since youth levels
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Gold medal at 2018 U16 European Championship
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Silver medal at 2018 U17 World Cup
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MVP at 2021 FIBA European Challengers: 17.0 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists per game
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Senior Team:
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Started all six games at 2024 Paris Olympics
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Silver medalist
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Averaged 6.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 18.4 minutes per game
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Achievements & Honors
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EuroLeague finalist (2024)
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French League champion (2024)
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Italian League champion, Finals MVP (2025)
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Olympic silver medalist (2024)
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FIBA European Challengers MVP (2021)
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Top European talent, highly sought after by WNBA teams
Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Versatile scorer and rebounder
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Elite perimeter defender
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High basketball IQ and leadership
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Reliable three-point shooter
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Style:
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Stretch-four forward who excels in transition and half-court offense
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Brings energy, toughness, and championship experience
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FAQs About Janelle Salaün
What position does Janelle Salaün play?
Forward
Which team does she play for?
Golden State Valkyries (WNBA), USK Praha (Czech Republic)
How old is Janelle Salaün?
23 (born September 5, 2001)
What are her main achievements?
Olympic silver medalist, EuroLeague finalist, French and Italian league champion, Finals MVP, FIBA European Challengers MVP
What is her playing style?
Versatile, high-scoring forward with elite defense and three-point shooting
Conclusion
Janelle Salaün is a dynamic and versatile forward whose rapid rise in Europe and strong debut in the WNBA have made her one of the most exciting young talents in women’s basketball. Her championship pedigree, Olympic experience, and all-around game make her a cornerstone for the Golden State Valkyries and a rising star on the global stage.
