France dominates EuroLeague Women’s end-of-season award nominations with 16 total nods

As the EuroLeague Women‘s season builds toward its climactic Final 6 in April, French basketball has already claimed a significant victory in the individual awards race. With an impressive 16 nominations across all major categories, France has established itself as the dominant force in this year’s end-of-season honors.

The strength of French basketball is evident not only through the three Boulangère Wonderligue clubs that advanced past the group stage, but also through the numerous French players who have found success abroad. Basket Landes made history by qualifying for their first-ever Final 6, while French internationals scattered across European clubs have delivered standout performances throughout the campaign.

French players sweep major award categories

The MVP race features three French contenders: Leïla Lacan from Basket Landes, Valériane Ayayi representing USK Prague, and Iliana Rupert of Fenerbahçe. This trio showcases the versatility and excellence of French talent across different leagues and playing styles.

France’s defensive reputation shines brightest in the Defensive Player of the Year category, where seven French players earned nominations. The list includes Gabby Williams and Iliana Rupert from Fenerbahçe, Basket Landes duo Leïla Lacan and Myriam Djekoundade, Pauline Astier from USK Prague, Coline Franchelin representing Flammes Carolo, and Laëtitia Guapo from Bourges.

The Rising Star category features three promising French talents: Leïla Lacan, Carla Leite from Saragossa, and surprise nominee Inès Pitarch-Granel from Bourges. Notably, both Lacan and Leite already compete at the highest level in the WNBA, demonstrating the global reach of French basketball development.

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Lacan leads the way with universal recognition

Leïla Lacan stands out as the most recognized French player, earning nominations in every single award category. Her versatility and impact have made her indispensable to Basket Landes‘ historic season while establishing her as one of Europe’s premier talents.

Julie Barennes represents France in the Coach of the Year category, adding to the country’s comprehensive dominance across all award classifications. Her leadership of Basket Landes to their maiden Final 6 appearance exemplifies the tactical excellence that has become synonymous with French basketball.

The stars of the season are ready to be crowned 🌟

Now it’s your turn – fan voting for the #EuroLeagueWomen Awards is open! 🗳

▶️ Make your pick: https://t.co/3Q2mTwgbr2 pic.twitter.com/Co3DTNooe2

— EuroLeague Women (@EuroLeagueWomen) March 10, 2026

With Spain trailing at eight nominations, the United States at seven, and Italy at five, France’s 16 nominations represent a commanding lead in individual recognition. The voting period runs until March 29th at 23:59, combining fan votes with input from coaches, captains, and journalists covering EuroLeague Women. The final awards ceremony in April will determine who succeeds last year’s winners, including Gabby Williams, who claimed the Defensive Player of the Year honor.