Toby Fournier: More Than Just a Dunk

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A pre-game dunk is a tradition for the Duke women’s basketball team, and for sophomore forward Toby Fournier, it’s been a near-constant ritual since she was 14. While often the subject of jokes, Fournier’s ability to throw it down with ease has become a symbol – and a statement. But Fournier is proving she’s far more than just a highlight reel dunker; she’s a complete player rapidly evolving into a dominant force in women’s college basketball.

“Dunking was what highlighted my game and brought people to watch,” Fournier, a 6-foot-2 forward, explained. “But there’s a lot of other things in my game. Getting that attention allowed me to share other skills, which was cool. My game is very versatile.”

From Viral Videos to a Collegiate Star

Fournier first gained viral attention in 2019 with videos showcasing her effortless two-handed dunks, racking up millions of views. She continued to dominate at Crestwood High School in Toronto, even catching the eye of NBA superstar LeBron James. Now, as a key player for the third-seeded Duke Blue Devils, heading into their Sweet 16 matchup against LSU, Fournier is showcasing a well-rounded skillset.

Her averages of 17.4 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game lead the team. What’s even more impressive is her growth as a shooter, now connecting on 34.6% of her three-point attempts. Coach Kara Lawson notes Fournier’s transformation from a primarily post-focused player to a more versatile threat.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring a Generation

While women’s dunking has a history – with pioneers like Georgeann Wells (1984), Lisa Leslie (2002), Candace Parker (2006), and Brittney Griner – Fournier represents a new wave. Born in 2005, she wasn’t alive for many of those groundbreaking moments. “I never really tried (to dunk) because I hadn’t really seen it in the women’s game,” Fournier admitted. “Eventually, I was getting up high enough that I thought, why not try?”

Her success sparked a new level of excitement and inspired others. Fournier’s pre-game dunks aren’t just a display of athleticism; they’re a morale booster for her teammates. “It gets us all super hyped, especially me and Toby,” says senior guard Taina Mair. “After she dunks, we start pushing each other and just celebrating.”

A Complete Player Under Lawson’s Guidance

Lawson, the Duke coach and a former WNBA champion, has been instrumental in Fournier’s development. She emphasizes the importance of details and incremental improvements. “You might not think that certain things matter, like it’s too small,” Fournier said. “Like the angle of the screen, if I’m two inches off, what is that gonna do? But it really does impact the game.”

Fournier’s versatility extends to the defensive end, where her athleticism allows her to guard multiple positions. Lawson praises her switchability and rebounding ability. Despite not yet dunking in a game during her college career, Fournier continues to dunk in pre-game warmups, sending a message of confidence and empowerment.

“I’m not the only one who can do it either,” Fournier asserts. “There are a lot of women who are starting to dunk. It’s just a new generation. Dunking is just a statement in general. Showing that we can also get up there.”

And to those who suggest lowering the rim to encourage more above-the-rim play, Fournier’s response is succinct and confident: “I don’t think so, I have no problem dunking on 10.”

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.