Awa Fam and Dominique Malonga are focused on the present, but their future in Seattle looks bright

The Seattle Storm are navigating a challenging season marked by a steep learning curve and a rebuilding process, anchored by two promising international stars: Awa Fam and Dominique Malonga. Both 20 years old, these young athletes embody a fresh wave of talent that the franchise and the WNBA are banking on to restore the team's competitive edge.

Despite the Storm’s 8-31 record this season, far from playoff contention, the focus within the team remains firmly rooted in growth and development rather than immediate results. Fam and Malonga, who joined forces in Seattle after crossing paths internationally as youth competitors, are gradually honing their on-court synergy, a process deemed crucial to unlocking their collective potential.

Their journey together began years ago during the 2022 U17 World Cup semifinals, where they faced off representing Spain and France, respectively. This early encounter laid the groundwork for mutual respect and competitive spirit, elements that have since evolved into a collaborative partnership within the WNBA. Their European backgrounds provide a unique foundation of experience and style, enriching their gameplay and team dynamic.

Standing at 6-foot-4 and 6-foot-6, Fam and Malonga bring a formidable presence to Seattle’s frontcourt. Their complementary skills—Fam’s perimeter shooting and Malonga’s interior prowess—offer strategic versatility. The duo’s ongoing effort to understand each other’s tendencies and preferences on the court is reflective of their youth and the natural adjustment period for two rookies acclimating to the league’s pace and physicality.

Malonga, who has been recognized for her All-Star caliber performance this season, leads the Storm in scoring and rebounds, demonstrating her capacity to impact games at a high level. Fam has impressed as a rookie, particularly with her rebounding, highlighting her immediate contribution despite her nascent professional status. Both players also represent the WNBA’s broader push for international expansion, serving not only as athletes but as ambassadors of women’s basketball globally.

The Storm’s decision to rebuild around this youthful nucleus came after a strategic pivot following the 2025 season, which saw the team assemble a roster of veteran All-WNBA players but ultimately fall short of postseason aspirations. The hiring of Coach Sonia Raman signaled a commitment to a long-term vision focused on internal development and nurturing emerging talents like Fam, Malonga, and rookie guard Flau’jae Johnson.

Seattle’s current struggles are not without precedent in the WNBA, where other franchises have demonstrated the potential for rapid ascent through investment in young talent and astute coaching. Teams like Washington and Dallas have recently transformed their fortunes by blending youth with experience, suggesting a blueprint that the Storm may emulate.

Coach Raman emphasizes a measured approach to player development, prioritizing daily growth over external pressures and lofty expectations. This philosophy aims to cultivate confidence and resilience, vital attributes for athletes tasked with revitalizing a storied franchise.

As the season progresses, the relationship between Fam and Malonga remains a work in progress, with both players acknowledging the ongoing nature of their collaboration. Their shared international heritage and experiences foster a unique bond that could, over time, become one of the most formidable frontcourt partnerships in the league.

Ultimately, the Seattle Storm’s future hinges on the maturation of this dynamic duo. While the present season’s results have been disappointing, the underlying trajectory suggests that patience and development could soon yield a resurgence, positioning Fam and Malonga as central figures in the next chapter of the franchise’s history.