One of the WNBA’s most historic franchises, the Seattle Storm filled a professional basketball void in the Pacific Northwest upon its establishment in 2000. Since then, the franchise has been home to iconic players like Sue Bird, Lauren Jackson and Breanna Stewart, and no team has won more WNBA championships than the Storm’s four titles.
Bird in particular has demonstrated a commitment to the franchise that goes beyond the hardwood. In 2024, the legendary point guard joined the Storm’s ownership group — a small group that welcomed a surprise new member from the NFL on Wednesday.
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Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner began his career in Seattle, where he played 10 years and won a Super Bowl title with the Seahawks. He saw firsthand how much enthusiasm the community had for the Storm, a team that has missed the WNBA playoffs only six times in its history.
Wagner has just become the first active NFL player to become part-owner of a WNBA team, following his purchase of a minority stake in the Storm. It is a decision the six-time All-Pro did not take lightly.
“I’m really excited to be a part of the WNBA,” Wagner told reporters. “I think it’s a great time (to do so). I’ve always watched them from afar, being in Seattle, and so I’m really excited to be able to be a part of the growth and stay connected to the community there.”
Following a disappointing loss to the Dallas Wings on Tuesday, the Storm is back on action on Thursday night against the Chicago Sky. Seattle has the fourth-best record in the WNBA at 14-10.
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