Seattle is about to honor one of its beloved sports icons. Sue Bird’s statue outside Climate Pledge Arena will be unveiled by the Seattle Storm on Sunday, August 17, making her the first former WNBA player to receive such an honor from her team.
Two career-defining milestones for a legend whose impact stretches far beyond the basketball court are the tribute and induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame later this year.
Jamal Crawford Applauds Sue Bird’s Class, Community Impact, and Historic Honor
Jamal Crawford, a former NBA star and Seattle native, talked about what distinguishes Bird’s legacy.
âSue did everything with class and style. She made her own path and was always accessible. Whenever something was going on in the community, you knew she was there â not just in name, but in person,â Crawford said.
âShe showed up, gave her time, and worked to make the community a better place. Thatâs why she truly deserves this honor. You might not see another one like her for a long time, so we have to appreciate, cherish, and celebrate that. Itâs a complete honor for her.â
SI.com reports that the sculpture crafted by renowned sculptor Julie Rotblatt Amrany will be the starting point for the all-day celebration ‘Forever Sue’, which begins at 10 a.m.
A press conference with Storm leadership, city officials, and WNBA legends is scheduled to take place as part of the event, according to the organizers’ schedule.
The Phoenix Mercury will take on the Seattle Storm at 3 p.m. at Climate Pledge Arena, in addition to a free fan fest at noon. The Seattle sports royalty will display Bird’s likeness and pay homage to Ken Griffey Jr. and Lenny Wilkens.
Sue Bird’s Legendary Career and Lasting Influence on the Game
The basketball career of Bird is legendary: he has won four WNBA championships, was selected to 13 All-Star teams, and holds the league’s all-time assist record. She spent her entire 21-year career in Seattle, becoming not only a franchise cornerstone but also a global ambassador for women’s sports.
Since 2024, she has been a member of the Storm ownership group and serves as the managing director of the USA Women’s National Team.
Becky Hammon Highlights Sue Bird’s Unmatched Leadership and Team Impact
âWith Sue, since weâre in Seattle, her leadership is what stands out the most. Sheâs obviously one of the all-time greatest point guards. I donât think anybody would contest that,â Hammon said. âShe was probably never the best player on her championship teams, but she was always the best leader. She got greatness out of everybody else, making her the greatest.â
Seattle Celebrates Sue Bird as a Permanent Part of the Cityâs Sports Legacy
BECU will present a limited-edition Sue Bird drawing by Seattle artist Keegan Hall to fans arriving early on Sunday, exclusively to the first 7,500 attendees inside the arena.
This weekend’s celebration in Seattle isn’t just about honoring a Hall of Fame career â it’s also about recognizing someone who has become a part of the community. Bird’s statue will be a constant reminder of the influence, leadership, and inspiration she has given to generations of athletes. In Seattle, Sue Bird isnât just a legend. Sheâs part of the cityâs DNA.
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