Iconic point guard Sue Bird, who devoted nearly two decades to the Seattle Storm, has taken on a new role as part of the team’s ownership group. Bird, who was the first overall pick in the 2002 WNBA Draft and contributed significantly to all four of the Storm’s championship victories, joins the ownership group ahead of the 2023 season.
Bird’s transition from court to boardroom marks a significant chapter in her storied career. Reflecting on her journey, Bird expressed excitement about continuing to contribute to the growth of women’s basketball, not just as a player but also as a businesswoman.
“As a player, I poured my heart into every game for the Seattle Storm, and now, as part of the ownership group, I am thrilled to continue contributing to the growth of the game,” Bird said in a news release. Her investment underscores the importance of recognizing the talent and market potential within the league, emphasizing the path toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Joining the likes of Michael Jordan and Dwyane Wade, Bird becomes just the third former player to take on ownership responsibilities within the WNBA. Her close ties to the Storm and the Seattle community had previously hinted at such a move, aligning with her vision for the future of women’s sports.
In addition to the ownership announcement, the Storm unveiled their new $64 million training facility, a testament to the team’s commitment to excellence both on and off the court. Valued at $64 million, the facility represents a significant upgrade for the franchise, providing players and staff with top-notch amenities and a sense of home. Storm co-owner Ginny Gilder emphasized the importance of creating a space that goes beyond mere practice grounds, embodying the essence of the franchise and its connection to the Seattle community.
“We wanted to create a space that was more than just a practice facility,” Gilder said. “We wanted to create a home for the Storm, a place where our players and staff could feel connected to the community and to the legacy of the franchise.”
The facility’s design incorporates elements of history, from championship memorabilia to nods to the city’s skyline, paying homage to the team’s rich legacy. For Bird, this new venture marks another milestone in her post-retirement endeavors, adding to her already impressive portfolio of investments and projects. As she transitions into this new role, her dedication to the organization and her vision for the future of the Seattle Storm shine through, cementing her legacy both on and off the court.
