Storm Legend Sue Bird Joins Franchise Ownership Group
On Wednesday afternoon Force 10 Hoops, who own the Seattle Storm announced that future Hall of Famer Sue Bird has joined the ownership group. Bird played over 20 plus years with the Seattle Storm leading the organization to four WNBA Championships, 13 All-Star Game appearances, eight All-WNBA teams, and five Olympic gold medals.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sue into the ownership group after a storied career on the court,” said Seattle Storm co-owner Lisa Brummel. “Her knowledge of the game and the league, her ever-expanding business acumen, and her dedication to the Storm organization, make her a superb addition to the ownership group.”
“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,” said Bird. “Investing in women’s sports isn’t just about passion; it’s smart business. It’s about recognizing the immense talent, dedication, and market potential our league has always had. Force 10 Hoops and the Storm have been at the forefront of this for decades. Together, we’re not just shaping the future of basketball, but also paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive society.”
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After the Storm retired her jersey last summer, Bird was asked about her interest in possibly owning a stake in the franchise.
“Not right now, but ownership is something that I would love to consider and be a part of at some point,” Bird shared.
“I’m already with the NWSL, and I’m an investor in Gotham FC. So, yeah will see. Hopefully, it works out.”
Bird was recently apart of the Business of Women’s Sports Summit, which was produced Axios and Deep Blue Sports + Entertainment. During her appearance on Tuesday, Bird spoke about the current landscape of NIL [Name, Image, & Likeness], “athletes aren’t just working on their game. [They’re] “working on their brands.”
According to UCLA Bruins head coach, Cori Close, brands, athletes and coaches are still trying to figure out the current landscape of NIL deals. “Brands don’t quite know how to enter into this NIL space and I think there’s incredible potential,” Close shared with Bird.
“I think there’s so much potential that has not been tapped into in the college space on that sort of team dynamic.” She added, “You’re creating young entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs.”
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