Sights and Sounds from Sue Bird’s Storm jersey retirement in Seattle
Sue Bird will forever be a part of Seattle Storm and WNBA history after her jersey was hoisted into the rafters of the Climate Pledge Arena on Sunday night.
The Storm fell on the Mystics 71-65 before the ceremony, but nothing could mar the evening’s celebrations.
In a nearly three-hour event, Bird’s No. 10 became only the second jersey the Storm retired. Bird is making history, following in the footsteps of former teammate Lauren Jackson. The Australian superstar’s No. 15 was retired in 2016.
Bird won four WNBA championships in her career and received a number of incredible awards:
In a career spanning 19 WNBA seasons, all in Seattle with the Storm, Bird averaged 11.7 points, 5.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game while averaging 42.9 percent from the field in 580 games lap.
“Seattle wasn’t always a home, but it has become…you gave me a HOME,” the WNBA said magnificently, kicking off the celebration of their amazing career.
As Bird joins in with Storm folklore, you can catch the most amazing sights and sounds of their big night at the Climate Pledge Arena.
Images and sounds of Sue Bird’s jersey retirement
The celebrations began before the game when Bird received a standing ovation from the almost sold-out crowd as she made her way to her seat off the field.
Bird then broadcast a video message to the city via the jumbotron. In excerpt it read:
“Dear Seattle,
From the moment I heard my name on draft night, I knew this city would always hold a special place in my heart. Twenty-one years later, this place has become a home. They hugged an eager newcomer from Syosset, New York, from day one, and the rest was history. Together we have created a legacy that will always be remembered and that contributes to this city’s rich basketball history.
The number 10 that will forever hang in those rafters symbolizes more than just my individual accomplishments. It represents every person who has supported me, the teammates and employees who have stood by my side, and the indomitable spirit of a city that I have proudly carried on my chest throughout my career.”
Former teammate Lauren Jackson made the case for Bird being the WNBA GOAT and made it clear to everyone – with a little help from ChatGPT.
“I asked ChatGPT what the most important position in basketball was… Turns out the point guard position is actually the most important position according to the AI… That would make you the most influential and impactful player of all time.” It makes you too to the true GOAT of our game.”
Bird delivered a stirring speech that covered many facets of her life and career and at one point touched on her fondest memory of the storm.
In 2018, Bird led the Storm 3-0 past the Washington Mystics in the finals. It was the franchise’s first title in eight years, and the winning experience really touched Bird:
“I know I’ll say this, I may regret it, I think it’s my favorite championship… I’m sorry, I just never thought we’d come back!”
The magic moment! Bird’s jersey flies into the rafters where it will hang forever – #10 forever!
A slew of stars came to support Sue, including musician Macklemore and Bird’s fiancee, soccer star Megan Rapinoe.