Israeli guard Yarden Garzon, 22, has captured attention after a whirlwind transition from college basketball in the United States to a professional contract abroad.
Her four seasons at Indiana University and the University of Maryland were marked by consistent appearances in the NCAA Tournament, where she helped her teams navigate the pressures of March Madness.
Despite being projected as only the second Israeli to break into the WNBA, Garzon went undrafted and later signed a rookie deal with the Phoenix Mercury, only to have the contract terminated because of a lingering injury.
A New Chapter in Spain
She is now set to begin her professional career with Zaragoza, a EuroLeague powerhouse, a move she describes as a deliberate step toward eventually earning a spot in the WNBA.
Garzon credits her family for much of her resilience; her father played basketball and her mother competed in volleyball, while her older sister Lior, also a high‑level player, helped her adjust to life in the United States.
The recent honor of being named to Forbes Israel’s 30 Under 30 list has added a boost of confidence, reinforcing her belief that she can reach the top league through a different route.
Looking ahead, Garzon says she feels ready to compete at the highest level and hopes this new platform will pave the way back to the WNBA.