Russell shot 61.7% in 2021 while contributing 7.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game
SEATTLE — The Seattle Storm announced today that two-time WNBA Champion Mercedes Russell has re-signed with the franchise. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Mercedes has become an integral part of the Storm and our championship culture,” said Talisa Rhea, Storm General Manager. “She is a true team player and her versatility at the post position and her skill set make her extremely valuable to the Storm. Mercedes has continued to grow each year with us, and we are excited about her ability to help us win now and in the future.”
Russell, who is entering her fifth season with Seattle, has averaged 5.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game during her career. She has played in 108 games with the Storm—making 60 starts—since being signed in 2018 after appearing in two games before being waived by New York.
“I am so happy to stay in Seattle with such a great organization,” said Russell. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to play at Climate Pledge Arena and continuing to compete for championships.”
Russell had a solid 2021 campaign, averaging 7.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game while dishing out a career-high 1.6 assists per contest and shooting an impressive 61.7% from the field. Russell connected on 70% of her shots from the field over the second half of the season—the best mark in the league over that stretch—and scored a season-high 14 points in regular-season finale vs Phoenix on Sept. 17.
“I am thrilled to have Mercedes back with us,” said Noelle Quinn, Storm Head Coach. “She is a cerebral player and has improved every year, displaying her excellent passing ability and a solid presence on both ends of the floor. Mercedes understands that her role with us is valuable and always plays to her strength.”
The Seattle Storm opens the 2022 season on Friday, May 6, hosting the Minnesota Lynx in its return home, playing its first full season in Seattle since 2018 at the newly renovated Climate Pledge Arena. Tickets are available at http://ticketcentral.seattlestormbasketball.com, or by calling 206-217-WNBA (9622).