Janelle Salaün | Beyond the Bay: Ballhalla to Berlin

Janelle Salaün opened up about her journey from the Bay Area to Berlin as she prepares to represent France on the international stage. Salaün shared how being with the team in Berlin makes everything feel real, noting the similarities to home and how much she misses her country while finding comfort close enough to feel that familiar warmth.

Salaün reflected on her love for the game dating back to childhood, recalling countless hours on indoor courts with her parents simply wanting to practice. She spoke about feeling ready for whatever competition comes her way, calling herself lucky to have the opportunity to play both in the WNBA and internationally through FIBA, something not everyone gets to experience.

On representing her country, Salaün described the feeling as amazing no matter the timing, always carrying a sense of pride. She also spoke candidly about Ballhalla, calling the environment in Golden State's home arena unmatched compared to FIBA competition, acknowledging that while she won't have that same home court advantage in Berlin, French supporters always show up for the team.

Salaün closed by discussing the extra motivation Ballhalla provides no matter where she plays, and expressed excitement about an upcoming matchup against a player she called a great challenge given their similar positions on the court.

00:00 — Berlin Feeling Like Home
00:20 — Childhood Memories and Love for the Game
00:31 — Ready to Compete on the International Stage
00:44 — Being Lucky to Play WNBA and FIBA
00:57 — On Ballhalla's Unmatched Environment
01:19 — Extra Motivation From Golden State's Fanbase
01:25 — Looking Ahead to a Big Matchup

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Golden State Valkyries | WNBA | Player Feature | Janelle Salaün | FIBA World Cup | 2026