Breanna Stewart gets long overdue video tribute from Storm

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Breanna Stewart, the former WNBA star, received a heartwarming welcome back to Seattle after three years. The Storm finally gave her the recognition she deserved before the recent game against the Liberty. The arena’s jumbo video boards displayed a message acknowledging their previous oversight and expressing a desire to make things right.

A touching video montage followed, celebrating Stewart’s contributions to the team and her two WNBA championships in Seattle. Despite not playing in the game due to rest, Stewart watched from the sidelines, visibly moved by the tribute.

This marked Stewart’s first visit to Seattle since she left for New York in 2023. Previous returns to the city were bittersweet for Stewart, as the Storm had never officially recognized her departure in the past. The lack of acknowledgment had left Stewart feeling underappreciated by the franchise she had dedicated so much to.

As a first-round pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft, Stewart quickly established herself as a standout player for the Storm. She was named Rookie of the Year in her debut season and went on to win league MVP honors. Stewart played a pivotal role in securing two WNBA titles for Seattle in just three years.

Despite her on-court success, the Storm had failed to honor Stewart with a video tribute or any formal recognition during her previous returns. In contrast, other former players, such as Jewell Loyd, had been acknowledged by the team upon their return.

Stewart had expressed disappointment at the lack of recognition, admitting that it had hurt her not to be appreciated in front of the fans she had played for. However, she maintained a positive attitude and continued to give her best on the court.

The Storm’s gesture of appreciation on Thursday seemed to mend the rift between Stewart and the franchise. The emotional moment served as a long-awaited acknowledgment of Stewart’s contributions and legacy in Seattle. It was a fitting tribute to a player who had given her all to the team and the city.