Jewell Loyd Requests Trade from Seattle Storm Amid Controversy
SEATTLE — In a shocking turn of events, All-Star guard Jewell Loyd has officially requested a trade from the Seattle Storm, a source confirmed to ESPN on Wednesday. This bombshell news comes on the heels of an external investigation into allegations of harassment and bullying by the Storm’s coaching staff, which concluded without finding any violations.
The trade request, first reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, has sent shockwaves through the WNBA. The timing couldn’t be more dramatic, as the investigation’s findings were announced just hours before Loyd’s request became public. According to a source, it was Loyd herself who filed the complaint that triggered the investigation.
Storm’s Statement on the Investigation
The Seattle Storm released a statement addressing the investigation, saying, “The Storm recently received internal allegations of potential workplace policy violations. 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.”
The team emphasized its commitment to maintaining a respectful work environment, adding, “To protect the integrity of the process, and to preserve confidentiality, we chose not to comment while the investigation was ongoing. The Storm will continue to provide a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect.”
The investigation, which was first reported by the Sun-Times and later confirmed by ESPN, began in mid-November and reportedly involved the experiences of multiple players. However, the findings ultimately cleared the coaching staff of any wrongdoing.
Loyd’s Legacy in Seattle
Jewell Loyd has been a cornerstone of the Seattle Storm since being drafted by the team in 2015. A six-time All-Star and three-time All-WNBA selection, Loyd played a pivotal role in leading the Storm to WNBA championships in 2018 and 2020. Her resume is nothing short of stellar—she led the league in scoring in 2023 and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist with USA Basketball.
In September 2023, Loyd signed a two-year extension with the Storm, solidifying her role as the team’s centerpiece during a transitional period. The franchise had just bid farewell to Breanna Stewart, who joined the New York Liberty, and Sue Bird, who retired earlier that year. Loyd’s return was seen as a beacon of hope for the team’s future.
2024 Season: A Rollercoaster Year
With Loyd leading the charge, the Storm made significant moves in free agency, signing stars Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith. The trio helped Seattle to a 25-15 record, marking a return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. However, their postseason run was short-lived, as they were swept in the first round by the powerhouse Las Vegas Aces.
Despite the team’s success, Loyd’s individual performance took a hit. She averaged 19.7 points per game but posted a career-low shooting percentage of 36.0% and a three-point shooting percentage of 27.4%, the second-lowest of her career. These struggles, combined with the off-court turmoil, may have contributed to her decision to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
What’s Next for Loyd and the Storm?
Loyd, a former Notre Dame standout and Chicago-area native, is under contract with the Storm through 2025, earning $249,032 that season. She is set to become a free agent in 2026, coinciding with the expected implementation of a new collective bargaining agreement. This timeline adds another layer of intrigue to her trade request, as teams across the league will undoubtedly be vying for her services.
As for the Storm, the coaching staff led by Noelle Quinn—Loyd’s former teammate from 2016-18—faces an uncertain future. Quinn completed her fourth season as head coach in 2024, with a staff that included former WNBA player Ebony Hoffman, former WNBA head coach Pokey Chatman, and Perry Huang. Huang, who had been with the Storm for seven seasons, departed after the playoffs to join the Los Angeles Lakers’ G League team as an assistant coach.
Key Takeaways
- Jewell Loyd has requested a trade from the Seattle Storm, citing dissatisfaction following an investigation into alleged workplace misconduct.
- The investigation, which Loyd initiated, found no violations of workplace policies.
- Loyd’s trade request comes after a challenging season, both on and off the court, despite the Storm’s return to the playoffs.
As the WNBA offseason heats up, all eyes will be on Jewell Loyd and the Seattle Storm. Will the team grant her trade request, or will they attempt to mend fences with their franchise player? One thing is certain: this story is far from over.
Originally Written by: Kevin Pelton
