The 2018 WNBA MVP and Finals MVP returns to Seattle on May 15
SEATTLE – The Seattle Storm has re-signed 2018 WNBA MVP and Finals MVP Breanna Stewart, the franchise announced today. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Stewie is a special player, a competitor at the most elite level and that was evident, once again, as she worked relentlessly to return to the court,” said Storm CEO and General Manager Alisha Valavanis. “The Storm franchise, the fans and the entire city are excited for Stewie’s return this season.”
In her first three years in Seattle, Stewart won 2016 WNBA Rookie of the Year, was selected to the 2017 WNBA All-Star Game and was named 2018 WNBA MVP and WNBA Finals MVP while leading the Storm to the franchise’s third WNBA Championship. A 2016 All-WNBA Second Team selection, the Storm forward was unanimously voted to the 2018 All-WNBA First Team and ranked among the league’s top three in scoring (21.8 PPG) and rebounding (8.4 RPG) while posting a career-high 52.9 field goal percentage.
After missing the 2019 WNBA season due to a ruptured right Achilles tendon, Stewart made her return to the court on Jan. 27, 2020, as a member of the United States women’s national team in an exhibition game against her alma mater, Connecticut.
“At first, it was about getting back on the court, that was the motivation,” said Stewart. “Now, it’s beyond that, it’s about continued growth and supporting my teammates as we come back together in Seattle. I’m back and signed up to chase more Championships.”
Contributing to international team efforts, Stewart paced the United States Women’s Basketball National Team to a gold medal at the 2018 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and earned tournament MVP honors after winning gold at the 2016 Summer Olympics. In 2018, she was named USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year for the third time, after receiving the honor in 2011 and 2013.
The North Syracuse, New York native was selected by Seattle with the first overall pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft after winning her fourth consecutive NCAA championship at Connecticut. Stewart remains the only player, male or female, to be named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player in four consecutive seasons.
Seattle’s most decorated professional franchise begins its quest to reclaim the WNBA title on May 15 at the University of Washington’s Alaska Airlines Arena. Be a part of the 2020 season with a Storm 360 Membership, mini-plan or group experience. Secure the best seats and deepest ticket saving while enjoying exclusive member benefits – including playoff priority – and join the best home court advantage by calling (206) 217-WNBA (9622).