A’ja Wilson on Storm Rookie Dominique Malonga’s Potential

A’ja Wilson, the star of the Las Vegas Aces, recently shared her initial thoughts on Seattle Storm rookie Dominique Malonga. Wilson acknowledges that she hasn’t thoroughly analyzed Malonga’s game yet, but believes her young forward’s promise. Malonga’s participation in the WNBA, a league known for its high competition and rapid player development, was highlighted by her.

Wilson noted, “I’ll have to go back and watch the film. During games, I don’t always notice everything, but she’s young and playing in a great league. Hopefully, she can continue to develop into a strong post player here.”

Dominique Malonga’s Early Impact

Malonga’s raw talent and athleticism are what set her apart as she enters the WNBA at the age of 19. Her unique blend of energy and potential, which excites both coaches and teammates, is evident in her ability to stand tall in the paint. Veterans like Wilson have already noticed her ability to run the floor smoothly.

Wilson added, “From what I did see, she looks good, she runs the floor well, and that’s always valuable—it can keep you a job in this league.” These comments highlight Malonga’s adaptability and work ethic, traits crucial for long-term success.

The Value of Athleticism in the WNBA

In professional basketball, running the floor effectively remains a skill that is often underrated. For post players, being mobile can differentiate them from the competition. During the Storm’s roster rebuilding, Malonga’s speed and agility make her a versatile option. Wilson’s remarks demonstrate how these fundamentals can guarantee career longevity. In a competitive league like the WNBA, athletes who consistently hustle and adapt often thrive.

Learning From the League’s Best

Rookies receive valuable learning opportunities by playing against stars like A’ja Wilson. During her early career, Malonga had the chance to test her skills against elite competition. She is encouraged to improve her footwork, strength, and decision-making when faced with dominant post players. The WNBA offers a steep learning curve. Malonga’s growth will be influenced by both her natural talent and her ability to learn from established figures. Wilson’s acknowledgement shows respect for her potential, which is significant for any rookie.

Seattle Storm’s Rebuilding Journey

The Seattle Storm faces the challenge of introducing new talent while preserving its rich championship history. Malonga plays a part in their long-term plan to develop a competitive roster for the future. The team’s evolving identity is complemented by her young and energetic presence in the frontcourt. Wilson’s comments highlight the importance of patience during this stage. Malonga is a testament to the Storm’s commitment to developing young players as cornerstones, as growth takes time.

The Road Ahead for Dominique Malonga

Dominique Malonga’s journey is currently in progress, and feedback from veterans like Wilson shows her promising trajectory. The WNBA requires more than just raw talent to achieve success. To succeed in the league, one must possess resilience, consistency, and the ability to adapt to its physical demands quickly. While her athleticism provides an immediate advantage, her development into a dominant post player will require refinement and mentorship. Each game gives Malonga the chance to prove that she belongs on one of the biggest stages in basketball.

Conclusion: Respect Earned Early

Dominique Malonga has made an impression among the league’s elite, as evidenced by A’ja Wilson’s early praise. The key to her career is to run the floor, stay disciplined, and embrace growth. The Storm’s rookie has the skills to create a lasting legacy, and veterans such as Wilson acknowledge her potential. Malonga’s continued learning and adaptation is a testament to the next generation of talent ready to shape the future of the WNBA.

Buford Landon

Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.

He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.

His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.

His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.

In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.