Golden State's Janelle Salaün Named WNBA Sixth Player of the Year

Unanimous Choice

The Golden State Valkyries received some great news as they prepare for the WNBA semifinals. Forward Janelle Salaün has been named the league's Sixth Player of the Year.

The vote was not even close. Salaün received all 74 votes from a national media panel to win the award unanimously. To qualify for the honor, a player must play more games as a reserve than as a starter. Salaün came off the bench in all 40 of her appearances this season.

Shifting to the Bench

The 25-year-old forward adapted well to her new role. Last season, she was a starter and made the all-rookie team during the franchise's first year in the WNBA. This year, the Valkyries signed Gabby Williams and Kiah Stokes in free agency, which moved Salaün to the bench.

She thrived in her new position. The 6-foot-2 French player averaged 12.7 points per game, which was the highest scoring average among WNBA reserves who played at least 20 games. She also made 93 3-pointers, averaged 4.0 rebounds, and recorded 1.2 assists per game. Her contributions helped Golden State finish the season with a 32-12 record and secure the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.

Salaün has had a busy and successful stretch of basketball. Last month, she played for the French national team at the FIBA Women's World Cup in Germany. She averaged 11.2 points and 5.8 rebounds to help France win the silver medal.

What it means for the next game

Las Vegas Aces at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Sun, 04 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 49%, Las Vegas Aces win 51%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 81, Las Vegas Aces 80. Our safest pick: Valkyries +5.5.

Las Vegas Aces at Golden State Valkyries (WNBA, Thu, 08 Oct): Golden State Valkyries win 54%, Las Vegas Aces win 46%; projected score Golden State Valkyries 83, Las Vegas Aces 81. Our safest pick: Valkyries +5.5.