Ten-time WNBA All-Star Nneka Ogwumike has officially announced her departure from the Seattle Storm as free agency begins. The veteran forward made the announcement through a social media post on Thursday.
Ogwumike has spent the past two seasons with the Storm, bringing her veteran leadership and consistent production to the Pacific Northwest franchise. Her decision to enter free agency comes after another strong individual season despite her advancing age.
The star forward will be turning 36 years old during the upcoming 2026 season, but her 2025 campaign demonstrated she remains among the league's most effective players. Ogwumike averaged 18.3 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 51.9 percent from the field and 36.7 percent from three-point territory.
Multiple teams have already expressed interest in the veteran forward. ESPN reporters have indicated Ogwumike has received interest from both the Minnesota Lynx and Los Angeles Sparks ahead of free agency.
Front Office Sports reporter Annie Costabile also reported that Ogwumike had a planned visit with the Lynx on Wednesday and is set to meet with "multiple teams" as a free agent.
The Lynx represent an attractive destination for a veteran looking to compete, having compiled a 64-20 record over the past two seasons combined. Minnesota is looking to remain a contender in the Western Conference for the 2026 season.
The Sparks present another potential landing spot where Ogwumike's veteran presence could prove valuable. Los Angeles is attempting to end a five-year playoff drought and could benefit from adding a player of Ogwumike's caliber and experience.
As free agency progresses, Ogwumike's decision will be closely watched given her continued high-level production and the impact she could have on either contender looking to bolster their frontcourt rotation for the upcoming season.
