Sue Bird Honored with Statue, First WNBA Player to Receive Tribute
In a historic ceremony on August 17, 2023, before the Seattle Storm faced the Phoenix Mercury, legendary former guard Sue Bird received a statue outside the Climate Pledge Arena. This landmark event marked Bird as the first player in the WNBA to be honored with such a tribute by her franchise, solidifying her legacy in women’s basketball.
During her speech, Bird expressed mixed emotions about being the first recipient of a statue, stating, “People keep asking me what it feels like to be the first. The truth is that I never set out to be the first at anything, but if being the first means I won’t be the last… then I’m proud to be the first.” This sentiment resonates deeply, as Bird hopes her recognition paves the way for future WNBA legends.
Bird’s illustrious career spanned two decades, all spent with the Seattle Storm. Throughout this time, she led the team to four WNBA championships, a record tied for the most by any franchise. Notably, she retired as the league’s all-time leader in games played, minutes played, and assists, earning a remarkable 13 All-Star appearances. Yet, as fellow players and speakers highlighted, Bird’s greatness transcends statistics.
Hall of Famer Swin Cash, who played alongside Bird at both the collegiate and professional levels, remarked, “Greatness changes the game. Greatness evolves. Greatness stays and has longevity. And that’s what Sue has.” This encapsulation of Bird’s impact on the sport was echoed by her longtime teammate, three-time MVP Lauren Jackson, who also praised her contributions.
The statue, crafted by Roblatt Amrany Studio sculptor Julie Rotblatt-Amrany, portrays Bird in a dynamic layup position, a nod to her iconic playing style. Bird herself contributed to the creative process, noting that the statue’s design was a thoughtful reflection of her career. “It was so incredible… every little tweak, it just became more and more me,” Bird said, reminiscing about her experience in the studio.
Bird’s connection to Seattle deepens with this honor. Her statue represents not only her achievements but also the city’s embrace of her as a beloved athlete. With the unveiling, Bird joins the ranks of other Seattle sports legends, including Lenny Wilkens, whose statue was revealed outside the same arena just months prior.
This recognition is further underscored by Bird’s other accolades, such as the retirement of her No. 10 jersey by the Storm in 2023 and the street outside Climate Pledge Arena being named “Sue Bird Court.” Her upcoming induction into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame later this year will add to her impressive legacy.
Reflecting on her journey, Bird shared, “I came to Seattle as Sue Bird the basketball player while leaving as Sue Bird the Seattleite.” She emphasized the significance of the statue, stating, “This statue will make sure a piece of me stays in this city forever.” With a touch of humor, she added, “when you inevitably see a little bird poop on the shoulder, don’t worry about it. Just consider it family checking in and reminding me where home is.”
Bird’s statue stands as a testament not only to her individual accomplishments but also to the recognition of women’s sports and the impact of female athletes in history. As the first WNBA player to be honored in this way, Bird has set a precedent that will inspire future generations of athletes.
