In a thrilling gold medal match at the 2024 Paris Olympics, the spotlight shines on a familiar face, though she’s not donning the red, white, and blue of Team USA. Gabby Williams, a former WNBA standout and one of the best players at this year’s Games, is leading France in a fierce battle against the United States women’s basketball team.
From UConn to Paris: Gabby Williams’ Journey
Gabby Williams was drafted as the No. 4 overall pick out of UConn by the Chicago Sky in the 2018 WNBA Draft. Despite her American roots, Williams has become a crucial player for France, thanks to a unique eligibility twist. Born in the United States, Williams is eligible to play for France due to her mother, Therese, being from the host country of this year’s Olympics. Fluent in French and deeply connected to her heritage, Williams has fully embraced her role on the French national team.
A Rising Star on the International Stage
Williams isn’t new to the Olympic spotlight. She competed in the Tokyo Olympics, where she helped France secure a bronze medal. This year, the 5-foot-11 forward has been one of France’s most valuable players, showcasing her skills and determination on the international stage.
Williams’ impressive career began at UConn, where she was a first-team All-America selection in 2017. Her stellar performance helped lead the Huskies to a Final Four appearance that year. She was teammates with Napheesa Collier, who is currently representing Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
A Dual Legacy
While Williams now plays overseas for Fenerbahce in Istanbul, her connection to both the United States and France gives her a unique place in basketball history. Her fluency in French, despite growing up in the United States, is a testament to her deep-rooted connection to her mother’s homeland.
As the gold medal match unfolds, all eyes are on Gabby Williams, a player whose talent transcends borders and whose journey continues to inspire fans on both sides of the Atlantic.
