Janelle Salaün is playing her part, as the Golden State forward earned 2026 WNBA Sixth Player of the Year by a first-ever unanimous vote on Sunday.
Salaün averaged 12.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.2 assists across 40 appearances off the bench. Her efforts helped the Valkyries to a No. 2 playoff seed.
Her cumulative plus-minus (+160) outpaced all reserves with a minimum of 20 appearances. She additionally set single-season bench records for points (509), 3-pointers (93), and 10-point games.
The Sixth Player of the Year award spotlights the season’s best bench player — a role the French star is embracing after starting much of last year.
“I really like this group — a great bench; we have a great second unit,” she said. “It wouldn’t be possible without you guys, so thank you.”
