Golden State, Calif. – The Golden State Valkyries have a secret weapon off the bench, and her name is Janelle Salaun. The 25‑year‑old guard has emerged as the WNBA’s most effective reserve, posting a league‑best 12.9 points per game while shooting 39.7% from beyond the arc.
Statistical dominance
Salaun ranks second in overall scoring on a team that sits comfortably as the league’s second‑best squad. Her three‑point accuracy places her second among all Valkyries shooters, and she holds the highest plus‑minus (+4.7) among bench players who have appeared in at least 20 games. When she is on the floor, the Valkyries outscore opponents by an average of 4.7 points per game.
Advanced metrics reinforce her impact. Salaun’s VPM (Value Per 100 Possessions) of +1.81 is the second‑highest among all bench players, trailing only teammate Tiffany Hayes, who posts a +1.94 VPM. VPM combines offensive and defensive contributions, underscoring Salaun’s all‑around value.
Comparison with other candidates
Other notable bench performers were considered, but none matched Salaun’s overall package. Sophie Cunningham of the Chicago Fever averages 8.3 points on 46.6% shooting and 43.4% from three, yet she carries a negative VPM (‑1.35) and a lower plus‑minus, indicating less overall impact.
Cameron Brink, a center for the Los Angeles Sparks, posts 9.3 points on 47.2% shooting and leads bench players in rebounds (4.9) and blocks (1.7). However, Brink’s VPM is negative (‑0.54) and her plus‑minus sits at ‑1.3, reflecting limited influence on game outcomes.
Tiffany Hayes, also a Valkyries reserve, posts the highest VPM among bench players (+1.94) and averages 8.9 points on 46% shooting. While impressive, Hayes sees fewer minutes and shoulders less offensive responsibility than Salaun, who consistently provides a scoring boost.
Why Salaun matters
Beyond the numbers, Salaun’s presence gives the Valkyries flexibility. Her ability to stretch the floor with reliable three‑point shooting opens driving lanes for teammates and forces defenses to stay honest. Coach Maya Delgado has praised her work ethic and readiness to step into a starter role when needed, noting that Salaun’s bench production is “critical to our success this season.”
With the WNBA Sixth Player of the Year award on the line, Salaun’s case is compelling. She combines scoring efficiency, strong per‑minute production, and a positive impact on team performance—qualities that align with the award’s criteria.
Looking ahead
As the season progresses, the Valkyries will rely on Salaun’s consistency to maintain their position near the top of the standings. If she continues to deliver at this level, she not only strengthens her own résumé but also sets a benchmark for bench contributions across the league.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the award voting unfolds, but all signs point to Janelle Salaun as the most deserving candidate for WNBA Sixth Player of the Year.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
