WNBA Team Signs Rebecca Allen and Pauline Astier to One-Year Contracts

A WNBA team completed signings of wing Rebecca Allen and French point guard Pauline Astier to one-year contracts, according to a source on Monday. These moves occurred during the initial weekend of free agency. The team had previously recruited Satou Sabally to join existing players Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones, forming a starting lineup that may also feature Leonie Fiebich or Betnijah Laney-Hamilton.

The focus has now shifted to bolstering the bench as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Allen, 32, is signing for $350,000, slightly above the league minimum. She spent the first seven seasons of her WNBA career with the team and recently described it as "home" on a podcast.

5 percent shooting percentage from three-point range. Over the past three years, she played with the Connecticut Sun, Phoenix Mercury, and Chicago Sky. 3 assists.

Impact on Roster Depth The signing of Allen raises questions about the future of another player, Rebekah Gardner, who received a reserved qualifying offer last week.

Gardner, who turns 36 this summer, expressed in February her intention to return for the season. She is an athletic wing capable of multiple roles, including driving to the basket and defense, but her playing time varied last season. Competition for minutes may increase with Allen's addition.

Gardner's role fluctuated previously, which she noted was challenging. If seeking more consistent play, she might pursue a trade. Astier, 24, is a 5-foot-11 player with elite passing vision and a traditional point guard style.

She signed for the rookie minimum of $270,000 after interest from teams including the Indiana Fever, Minnesota Lynx, Washington Mystics, Toronto Tempo, and Connecticut Sun. Her signing addresses the need for a backup point guard.

Background and Statistics Currently, Astier plays for USK Praha in the EuroLeague, where she averages 10.

9 steals across 14 games. 2 percent from the free-throw line. This addition brings youth to the team's backcourt. The signing likely eliminates the possibility of another player's return, such as Natasha Cloud, who would have faced a reduced role and pay cut following recent multi-year deals.

The team has financial constraints in filling the roster after adding Sabally. Terms of Sabally's contract have not been disclosed. Additionally, the team signed Spanish forward/center Raquel Carrera and Australian forward Anneli Maley to training camp contracts.

These moves contribute to overall roster development. Free agency continues, with further adjustments expected as the team aims to compete in the league.