Sandrine Gruda

Sandrine Gruda (born 25 June 1987) is a French professional basketball player. She currently plays the center position for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Superleague. Gruda played the center position the French Olympic team at the London 2012 Olympic Games. She played with the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA from to 2008 to 2010.

Before the WNBA

She is the daughter of Ulysse Gruda, who played for the French men's national basketball team, and grew up on Martinique. Before joining the WNBA, Gruda played professionally for the French club Union Sportive Valenciennes Olympic. She began playing on senior level in 2002, and professionally in 2005. She was voted the best European young women's player of the year 2006.

WNBA career

Gruda was drafted 13th overall in the 2007 WNBA Draft by the Connecticut Sun. She did not join the Sun until the 2008 season. She was highly touted by head coach Mike Thibault before joining the team. During her rookie season, she provided solid bench play and with her height and length, was a consistent rebounder and shot-blocker.