WNBA star Jewell Loyd, a two-time champion and the 2015 Rookie of the Year, has requested a trade from the Seattle Storm, the team she has called home since being drafted first overall in 2015.
The trade request comes after Loyd raised concerns about alleged harassment and bullying from the Storm’s coaching staff.
The organization launched an independent investigation in response, hiring a law firm to examine the claims. Last month, the Storm announced that the investigation found no violations of workplace policies, including harassment or discrimination.
In a statement to ESPN, the Storm said:
“The organization retained an outside investigator to conduct an impartial investigation into the allegations. The investigation has been completed, and there were no findings of policy violations or any discrimination, harassment, or bullying.”
Sources speculate that the investigation’s outcome may have influenced Loyd’s decision to leave the team.
An Illustrious Career in Seattle
Loyd has been a cornerstone of the Storm, leading them to WNBA championships in 2018 and 2020. A six-time All-Star and three-time All-WNBA player, she was also the league’s leading scorer in 2023.
Beyond the WNBA, Loyd has earned two Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
In September 2023, Loyd signed a supermax two-year extension with the team. Despite the new contract, the current circumstances appear to have soured her relationship with the organization.
Impact of New Signings
This offseason, the Storm signed high-profile free agents Skylar Diggins-Smith and Nneka Ogwumike, signaling their intent to build a championship-caliber roster. Diggins-Smith had expressed excitement about teaming up with Loyd, saying:
“Stepping onto the court alongside Jewell, benefiting from the leadership of Noelle Quinn, and feeling the energy of the Seattle Storm fans is a combination that I am confident will lead to success.”
With Loyd’s trade request, however, the Storm’s vision for the upcoming season faces a significant setback.
What’s Next for Jewell Loyd?
Loyd’s trade demand places the Storm in a challenging position, as they weigh their options for a player who has been instrumental to their success.
Her potential departure will undoubtedly reshape the dynamics of the WNBA as teams vie for the opportunity to add one of the league’s top talents.
