Léopold Delaunay: from NBA dream to injury, an unforgettable Summer League experience
While living one of the best moments of his young career, Léopold Delaunay (6’4″, 23 years old) saw his California adventure abruptly interrupted by a serious knee injury. A surprise invitee of the Golden State Warriors for the 2025 Summer League, the Le Mans Sarthe Basket (MSB) shooting guard had impressed observers and even attracted interest from clubs like AS Monaco in EuroLeague. Now facing a long rehabilitation, he keeps his head high and insists he « would do this experience again without hesitation », as he told Courrier de l’Ouest.
Eight months out for Léopold Delaunay
Injured during his last game in Las Vegas, Léopold Delaunay suffered an ACL tear with meniscus damage. « I will need surgery and at least eight months of rehabilitation, » he explains. Even before the operation, the guard has already started working with Le Mans physiotherapists to best prepare his knee for surgery.
This injury, which occurred on a routine play, « a basic layup, » interrupts a promising trajectory just as he was establishing himself in French basketball and drawing attention from across the Atlantic.
An extraordinary American adventure
Undrafted in 2023 and with no particular ambition to cross the Atlantic this season, Delaunay received an unexpected offer from the Golden State Warriors. Their scout contacted his agent, quickly validating his arrival: « It was done in two days. » Once there, he discovered the inner workings of a legendary franchise and NBA excellence: « When you go for breakfast, it’s the chef who prepared your meal. You have to pass through the Warriors’ locker room, you see the names of Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler… You know you’re not just anywhere. »
Contract discussions with the Warriors
Before his injury, Delaunay seemed well-positioned to extend his American stay. « There were discussions for an Exhibit Ten, then possibly a Two-way contract, » he reveals. However, he specifies that he had « no guarantee of getting an NBA contract » and that playing in the G-League « didn’t interest him at all. » The NBA project could take shape, but on his terms.
Remarkable maturity
Despite the pain and frustration, Léopold Delaunay maintains his smile and lucidity. « Even with the injury at the end, I think this will serve me enormously and I will grow from it, » he assures. At only 23, he shows mental strength that will surely help him bounce back even stronger.
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