Tue Nov 19 23:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Seattle Storm Launch Investigation into Coaching Staff Amidst Player Mistreatment Allegations
**Seattle, WA** – The Seattle Storm are conducting an internal investigation into allegations of player mistreatment by their coaching staff, ESPN confirmed on Saturday. The investigation, which was first reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, involves accusations of harassment and bullying related to player performance. A law firm has been retained by the organization to conduct a thorough review.
The allegations come after a season of mixed results for the Storm. Despite a significant turnaround from an 11-29 record in 2023 to a 25-15 record this year, fueled by the additions of veteran free agents Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith, the team was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Las Vegas Aces. Head coach Noelle Quinn, entering her fourth season, publicly expressed disappointment with the team’s effort throughout the year, vowing improvements in this area.
The investigation involves Quinn, along with assistant coaches Ebony Hoffman, Pokey Chatman, and former assistant Perry Huang, who recently left to join the Los Angeles Lakers’ G League team. The Storm, a four-time WNBA champion, are navigating a period of transition following the departures of Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart. While star players Jewell Loyd and Diggins-Smith are under contract for 2025, Ogwumike’s future with the team remains uncertain. The outcome of the investigation will undoubtedly shape the Storm’s future and their approach to player development and team culture.
First Piper 