Sun May 18 02:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins, who have been friends since their teenage years playing on USA junior national basketball teams, have finally reunited as teammates on the Seattle Storm. Their bond, forged over years of shared experiences and a deep understanding of each other’s game, is expected to elevate the Storm’s performance and leadership. Diggins and Ogwumike already helped lead the team to an improved record last year, and are expected to do even better this year. As the team transitions into a new era, their leadership styles and on-court chemistry are being compared to legendary Storm duos like Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson. The teammates are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.
**News Article:**
**Reunited: Ogwumike and Diggins Bring Decades-Long Bond to Seattle Storm**
**SEATTLE, WA** – After years of friendship that began on the court during their teenage years playing for USA junior national basketball teams, Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith have finally joined forces as teammates on the Seattle Storm. Their reunion marks a significant moment for the team, which is looking to improve upon its 2024 performance.
Ogwumike and Diggins-Smith’s connection extends far beyond the court, dating back to Nike skills camps and USA Invitational camps where they first crossed paths. Diggins-Smith fondly recalls recognizing Ogwumike as one of the best players, solidifying their bond from a young age.
“I always call myself the fifth Ogwumike sister,” Diggins-Smith joked. “Nneka is like my soulmate on the court. I know where she’s at. I know what she wants, and I know what she’s thinking.”
The pair’s arrival in Seattle has been hailed as “divine timing,” as both players sought new opportunities. Diggins-Smith was looking for a fresh start after a tumultuous end to her time with the Phoenix Mercury, while Ogwumike considered leaving the Los Angeles Sparks after a successful 12-year tenure.
Last season, Ogwumike and Diggins-Smith were instrumental in the Storm’s turnaround, helping them improve from an 11-29 record in 2023 to a 25-15 record in 2024, finishing fifth in the WNBA standings. Despite a disappointing first-round playoff exit, expectations are high for the upcoming season.
With the team entering a post-Jewell Loyd era, Ogwumike and Diggins-Smith are now the cornerstones of the Storm. Coach Noelle Quinn praised Ogwumike’s presidential leadership style and Diggins-Smith’s competitive spirit, noting their complementary leadership qualities.
“Nneka is obviously presidential… [in] how she leads with her voice, her actions and everything in between,” Quinn said. “Sky is a pulse in the way that she leads… It’s always through action. It’s very competitive. She’s not going to ask anything of her teammates that she’s not giving up herself.”
Their dynamic has drawn comparisons to legendary Storm duos like Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson, known for their ability to elevate those around them and sustain a high level of competition. As the Storm embark on a new chapter, the bond between Ogwumike and Diggins-Smith provides a foundation for success, both on and off the court.
First Piper 