Seattle Sets the Standard: Honoring Sue Bird with WNBA’s First Player Statue
The Seattle Storm will honor basketball legend Sue Bird with a statue outside Climate Pledge Arena on August 17, marking the first time a WNBA franchise has dedicated a statue to a former player.
The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. PT at the arena’s West Plaza and will include remarks from Storm leadership, city officials, WNBA legends, and Bird herself. A fan festival will follow, leading into the team’s afternoon game against the Phoenix Mercury.
Bird spent her entire 21-season WNBA career with the Storm, winning four championships, earning 13 All-Star selections, and setting the league’s all-time assists record. She also won five Olympic gold medals and four FIBA World Cup titles while representing Team USA.
“Sue Bird exemplifies excellence in basketball. Her leadership, her longevity and her commitment to the Seattle community and the Storm has inspired generations,” said Dawn Trudeau, co-owner of the Seattle Storm. “Her success at all levels is a testimony to the magnitude of her career. We are thrilled to celebrate her in this lasting way, where fans can admire her statue and be reminded of what greatness looks like for years to come.”
The statue was designed by sculptor Julie Rotblatt-Amrany of the Roblatt Amrany Studio, known for creating sports statues including those of Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez, and Lenny Wilkens.
Storm President & CEO Alisha Valavanis said the tribute reflects Bird’s broader impact beyond basketball, noting her role in advancing equity and visibility for women in sports.
Bird, who was selected first overall in the 2002 WNBA Draft, recently joined the Storm’s ownership group and was named managing director of the USA Women’s National Team.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and Climate Pledge Arena officials also praised Bird’s contributions to the city and the global growth of women’s basketball.
Fans attending the August 17 game will receive commemorative artwork as part of the celebration.
