Valkyries’ Janelle Salaün named to WNBA’s All-Rookie Team

Valkyries’ forward Janelle Salaün has been named to the WNBA all-rookie team, the league announced today. 

Salaün joins rookie of the year Paige Bueckers, Washington’s Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen and Seattle’s Dominique Malonga on the all-rookie team. 

The 24-year-old scoring wing averaged 11.3 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 36.6% from the 3-point line across 36 games this season. 

“Janelle had an exceptional rookie season, and this recognition is well-deserved,” said Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase in a statement. “She’s one of the most driven and focused players I’ve coached. Her mindset is 100% on the game – how she can get better and help this team win. She stepped up all season and showed a maturity which is really impressive for someone in their first year in the WNBA.”

Salaün was a key piece to the Valkyries’ playoff run this season. 

She solidified Golden State’s forward position and was never afraid to take the big shots in crunch time. She ranked fourth  in scoring and was third in minutes per game among rookies. 

In two postseason games against the Minnesota Lynx, Salaün averaged 13.5 points and 5.0 rebounds. She started 33 games this year. 

Salaün joins teammate Veronica Burton and coach Natalie Nakase as members of the Valkyries to win awards this season. Burton was given most improved player while Nakase was tabbed the league’s coach of the year. 

Salaün and Malonga became the first-ever French-born players to be named to the WNBA All-Rookie Team.

Going into this offseason, the Valkyries will have the option to bring Salaün back. Salaün is a reserved free agent, meaning Golden State could decide whether to sign her to a contract or release her into free agency.