Who Is Alicia Tournebize? The 17-Year-Old French Basketball Star Who Dunked at EuroBasket

Alicia Tournebize is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about young athletes in international women’s basketball. The 17-year-old from France made headlines after throwing down a two-handed dunk in the bronze medal match of the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket 2025.

In a sport where dunks are still rare, especially in women’s basketball, Alicia’s athleticism, confidence, and performance are setting her apart. But Alicia isn’t just a viral moment—she’s the full package.

The Viral Dunk That Made History

The moment came on July 13, 2025, during a high-stakes game between France and Belgium for third place at the U18 EuroBasket. France was already ahead, but Alicia added a spectacular highlight to the game.

With just over 8 minutes left, Alicia jumped a passing lane near half-court, stole the ball, and ran straight to the hoop. Then came the dunk—a clean, two-handed finish that had fans and players on their feet.

France won the game 72–47. Alicia ended the night with 19 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks. Her dunk, however, was the story that went viral.

Who Is Alicia Tournebize? Early Life and Basketball Roots

Alicia Tournebize was born on July 21, 2007. She stands 6 feet 4 inches tall, making her one of the tallest players in her age group. From a young age, Alicia was surrounded by basketball. She began playing at age 6 with local French club JA Vichy, where she developed her skills and passion for the game.

Alicia’s path was shaped by her family, especially her mother, who is a French basketball legend.

Basketball Legacy: Her Mother’s Influence

Alicia’s mother is Isabelle Fijalkowski, a former WNBA player, five-time French League champion, and a member of the French Basketball Hall of Fame.

Fijalkowski played college basketball in the U.S. at the University of Colorado, then was drafted into the WNBA in 1997. She played for the Cleveland Rockers and left a lasting mark on both American and French basketball.

Alicia’s aunt, Brigitte Tournebize, also played professional basketball in France, showing that talent runs deep in the family.

Career Timeline: From Youth to Pro Contract

• 2013–2018: Started training at JA Vichy (age 6–11)

• 2019: Joined Tango Bourges Basket U15 squad

• 2022–2023: Played for Espoirs de Bourges in NF2 league

• April 2024: First public dunk in pregame warmups goes viral

• July 2024: Competed in the FIBA U17 Women’s World Cup (France placed 4th)

• Feb 2025: Dunked again in an official U18 game

• March 2025: Signed a training-intern contract with Tango Bourges senior team

• July 2025: Dunked in EuroBasket U18, gaining global attention

Her consistent performance, leadership, and athleticism have caught the eye of international scouts and media.

More Than Just a Dunker

Alicia is known for more than just her highlight plays. She leads her team in rebounds, scoring, and steals. She’s also praised for her court vision, shot-blocking ability, and maturity under pressure.

At EuroBasket, Alicia averaged:

• 16.2 points per game

• 10.8 rebounds per game

• 2.5 steals per game

• 1.4 blocks per game

She’s a defensive anchor, a scoring threat, and a future franchise player.

A Growing List of French Stars

France has been producing elite basketball talent in recent years. Names like Victor Wembanyama, Dominique Malonga, Gabby Williams, Marine Johannès, and Iliana Rupert have already made their mark in the NBA and WNBA.

Alicia Tournebize looks ready to join that list—and possibly stand above it. With her size, power, and agility, she brings something new to the women’s game.

What Makes Her Dunk So Important?

Dunks in women’s basketball are still rare. In WNBA history, there have only been 37 dunks, with 27 by Brittney Griner alone. Alicia is part of a very small group of women who have dunked in competitive play.

Her dunk shows that the game is evolving. Young women are now breaking barriers in athleticism and visibility. Alicia’s dunk is a symbol of what the next generation of female athletes is capable of.

Will She Join the WNBA?

Although Alicia hasn’t announced plans to move to the U.S., many believe it’s only a matter of time before she declares for the WNBA Draft. She already plays for one of France’s top clubs, and her family has strong WNBA connections.

With her current pace, she could enter the draft by 2027 or earlier. If she does, she’ll bring the kind of global buzz that few prospects generate.