PARIS (France) - One of the greatest French players of the modern era and a EuroLeague Women legend, Sandrine Gruda hangs up her basketball shoes having left a stunning body of work and an indelible imprint on the sport.
Spanning almost 20 years, the exceptional career of Gruda has seen her win a stack of trophies and individual prizes for both her country and also an array of the biggest clubs in the women's game.
Speaking to FIBA.basketball prior to a prestigious and star-studded gala event which included a celebration of her career, she reflected on her time spent on the hardwood.
Sacrifices, friendships and pride
Reflecting on her journey, it's clear that her origins have always been a cornerstone of her identity, fueling her ambition and determination.
"I feel good when I think about my career. I am proud of myself because of what I consider about where I come from – Martinique, an island in the Caribbean," explained Gruda.
"I saw all the sacrifices I had to make going overseas without my family when I was so young. Living in a country where I had never been before.
The challenges she faced, the distances from loved ones, and the cultural adjustments were all part of the price she paid to chase her dreams. "I am happy for the friendships I have made along the way. I am also happy I have prepared my career after basketball, while still playing."
Never about the trophies or medals
Gruda may be one of the most highly decorated and revered players in the global game of the past 20 years, but the 37-year-old was quick to point to the things that matter to her most when she now looks back. "It's all been about sharing moments together," she insisted.
"Going on vacation and being there at a wedding for example. For me, this is more important than anything else – the relationships.
"One coach told me that in basketball, you will not remember the trophies and medals. You will remember relationships and the people you built those goals with. That is exactly it. "I remember how much time we spent working on goals and talking about it. We were building friendships and that has been beautiful for me. Just to be able to connect with those people."
Memories for Les Bleues
Gruda was a difference-maker for France. Her first entry into the European basketball scene was when she made an instant splash at youth level. Even as a teenager she was already starring in the senior team.
But with so many highs to choose from, what were her favorite moments wearing a national team vest?
"In 2009, when we won the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket, that was great - I was so happy," mused Gruda.
"Also, the 2012 Olympic silver medal in London and then in 2021, I was happy also. It was tough summer because we had the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket before Tokyo, but I am proud we got the bronze medal at the Olympics.
"I think those three moments are the best for me."
EuroLeague Women legend status locked in
In EuroLeague Women, Gruda was simply sensational - an all-time great of the competition. Het eye-popping stats and numbers alone mean she is guaranteed legendary status.
Ranked the second all-time highest EuroLeague Women scorer with 3,393 points, she also racked up 259 appearances - the fourth highest number ever.
Standing on the third step of the all-time rebounding podium, she amassed 1,673 of them and has more offensive rebounds than anyone else with 587. You can also throw in a top four spot for blocks too, with 258 in total.
Having initially started out in France with Valenciennes, Gruda played 10 years in the competition with powerhouse club UMMC Ekaterinburg winning the title in 2013. She also represented the mighty Fenerbahce, along with Yakin Dogu Universitesi, Beretta Famila Schio and eventually LDLC ASVEL Feminin - winning EuroCup Women with the French side in 2023.
The club platform that ran alongside her international career with France meant she was one of the biggest stars for a long time. Although Gruda herself admits that this was never really anticipated.
She said: "I am happy and proud to have reached playing with the cream of the cream.
"When I look at all of those players like Diana Taurasi, Candace Parker, Cynthia Cooper – to be a part of that and be considered as one of them was not even in my scope! "To be a part of that and even be considered as one of them – I never pictured that. When I reached that level, I was very happy and proud. "When I reflect on it now, I am like wow, that was something special – as is still being in touch with them to this day."
Always on a mission...
Asked about her impact, legacy and what people will remember her for, Gruda is hesitant at first. After careful thought, she then suggests it was her determination and dedication that normally got noticed most.
"My work ethic, discipline and the seriousness I had on the court," she declared.
"People always told me how focused I was compared to others. I was not there to chit-chat, I was on a mission.
"I remember signing a contract to go to Russia at 19 years-old. People were telling me I was too young. No other French women had left that young. Maybe at end of their careers yes – because that was the mentality. "For me it was about pushing the limits," continued Gruda.
"In France I had a championship and did my thing and I wanted to go further. I was always pushing those limits. I never wanted to stay in any environment where I was satisfied. "Satisfaction was never the goal. If you are satisfied you get comfortable and if you get comfortable, there is no room for growth.
"You can be happy for what you achieve but there is always something else you can achieve. I always challenged myself to grow," concluded Gruda.
Grow she certainly did - into one of the biggest stars on the planet.
Now, many other players are growing and following in her footsteps, having been inspired by the trail she blazed before them. FIBA