Seattle Storm coach Noelle Quinn received a multiyear extension on Monday despite the team’s 11-29 record this season.
Quinn, 38, guided the Storm to a 22-14 record and reached the WNBA semifinals the previous season before the offseason departures of Breanna Stewart (free agency) and Sue Bird (retirement).
“As we build towards our next championship, we are thrilled to continue with Noelle leading the way for our team,” Seattle general manager Talisa Rhea said in a news release. “Noelle’s competitive passion, basketball IQ and extensive playing career, coupled with her sideline experience as one of the longest-tenured coaches in the league, positions our team to be successful as we pursue excellence on the court.”
The Storm have won four WNBA titles — the most recent in 2020 when Quinn was an assistant coach — but bottomed out this season with a .275 winning percentage, second-worst in the franchise’s 24-season history. It was the first time Seattle missed the playoffs since 2015.
Quinn is 49-53 in parts of three seasons as coach. She also spent 4 1/2 seasons over two stints as a player with Seattle and was part of the club’s 2018 title team, making her the only person to win a WNBA title as both a player and in a coaching role.
“One key to great organizations is motivated people that are committed to excellence,” Quinn said. “This is what the Seattle Storm embodies and I am grateful to be a part of it. I’d also like to thank our supportive, passionate and dedicated fans. I’m so thrilled for what’s to come.”
Seattle also prompted assistant coach Pokey Chatman to associate GM. Chatman also will continue her role on the coaching staff.
Chatman, 54, has nine seasons of head-coaching and general manager experience with the Chicago Sky (2011-16) and Indiana Fever (2017-19).
“We are excited to utilize Pokey’s vast experience and knowledge of our league in a more formalized capacity to continue elevating Seattle as a top destination for players across our league,” Rhea said. “She is an exceptional ambassador for the game and for the Storm and we look forward to her playing an integral part in our future success.”
–Field Level Media
