August 17th, 2025 – Seattle, WA – Under sunny summer skies, fans packed the West Plaza of Climate Pledge Arena to witness the unveiling of a bronze statue honoring Seattle Storm legend Sue Bird.
Earlier in the day Bird raised a “Forever Sue” Flag on the top of the Space Needle which overlooks Climate Pledge Arena where the Storm have called home since 2022.
Sue Bird spent her entire 21-season career with the Seattle Storm, becoming a four-time WNBA champion, a 13-time All-Star, and the league’s all-time leader in assists. She now joins NBA legends Dirk Nowitzki and the late Kobe Bryant as one of the few athletes to dedicate over two decades to a single franchise and be honored with a bronze statue. The statue created by renowned Julie Rotblatt-Amrany, is located next to former Seattle Sonics player and coach Lenny Wilkens.
Climate Pledge Arena honored Bird’s legacy previously by retiring her No. 10 jersey in 2022 and renaming part of 2nd Avenue North “Sue Bird Court” in 2024.
Fans roared as Storm legends Swin Cash Canala and Lauren Jackson arrived, along with Seattle Kraken owner Sam Holloway and WNBA star Diana Taurasi—who faced off against the Storm later that day.
Following the tributes from friends, WNBA leaders, and Mayor Bruce Harrell, August 17 was officially declared “Sue Bird Day” in Seattle.
As the curtain fell from the mysterious black box beside the stage, Sue Bird stood at the podium, hand over her heart, visibly moved as she saw her statue for the first time since its completion.
Amid the roar of fans shouting, “We love you!” and “You’re the GOAT!”, Bird softly read from a prepared speech, pausing at times to take in the moment. She thanked everyone who supported her journey—not only as an athlete, but as a person growing into adulthood over her 20 years in Seattle. She gave special acknowledgment to the friends, family, and colleagues in attendance, all watching with pride.
With trademark humility, she reflected on the honor of being the first WNBA player immortalized in bronze—and expressed hope that she won’t be the last. Her final words to the fans were a lasting testament to her character and values.
“This statue will stand here long after we’re gone and I hope it tells a simple story: that greatness isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being persistent.”
” You can be true to yourself and still accomplish extraordinary things and when a city believes in you anything is possible.”
” To every young player who will walk past this statue: your dreams are valid, even when other people don’t understand them. “
“The best careers aren’t measured just by what you achieve, but by who you become along the way.”
Following the conclusion of the unveiling ceremony fans lined up to take selfies and photos of the statue and participate in some pre-game fun on the plaza.
The Phoenix Mercury edged out the Storm 85–82 in a nail-biting finish on Seattle’s home court. With the end of the regular season fast approaching, the Storm now hit the road to face the Chicago Sky on Tuesday—eager to stack up crucial wins and keep their playoff hopes alive.
Next home game: Saturday, August 30th “Believe in Women Night” vs Chicago Sky at 6PM
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*Photos by Laura Beth Harrington
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