Awa Fam’s Bold Move: Why She Chose Valencia Over Top US Colleges
A rising star makes a daring decision, and her reasons will surprise you!
At just 19 years old, Spain’s Awa Fam is a true phenomenon in the world of basketball. Standing tall at 6’6″, her skills and versatility have caught the eye of many, making her a highly sought-after prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Fam, despite being courted by some of the biggest names in US college basketball, including UConn and LSU, decided to stay closer to home.
In an exclusive interview, Fam revealed the inner conflict she faced. “I was incredibly tempted by the offers from Ole Miss, LSU, Duke, TCU, and UConn. The opportunity to study and play in the USA was very appealing. But I was confused; I had to decide between my comfort and my dreams.”
Born and raised in Valencia, Spain, Fam felt a deep connection to her hometown. “Valencia is my second home. The support I receive here is unparalleled. My friends, my family – they’re all just a stone’s throw away.”
And so, she made a bold choice. Fam signed a long-term contract with Valencia Basket, becoming the youngest player to do so at just 15 years old. But her aspirations didn’t end there. She still harbored dreams of playing for a US college team and, even bigger, the WNBA.
“My ultimate dream has always been to play in the WNBA. If I excel in the Euro League and with Valencia, perhaps in a year or two, I’ll be ready to take that leap.”
And it seems her hard work is paying off. According to mock drafts, Fam has a very real chance of realizing her childhood dreams as early as next year. International prospects like her become eligible for the WNBA draft at 20, and Fam will turn 20 in June next year.
The 2026 WNBA draft is set for April 13th, and Fam’s name is already making waves. In Michael Voepel’s mock draft, she emerged as the top pick after the Dallas Wings won the draft lottery. Fam’s agent confirmed that competing in the WNBA is her top priority for 2026, pushing her ahead of UCLA’s Lauren Betts as the top choice.
But here’s the part most people miss: Awa Fam’s story is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself. While UConn’s Azzi Fudd, known for her backcourt chemistry with former teammate Paige Bueckers, is also being touted as a top pick, Fam’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, the road less traveled can lead to incredible opportunities.
So, what do you think? Is Fam’s decision to stay in Valencia a wise move, or did she miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!