“Transformation of the Coach Following a Mysterious Bullying Investigation”
Coach Noelle Quinn of the Seattle Storm described the external investigation into allegations of harassment and bullying involving herself and her coaching staff as a valuable learning experience. The investigation ultimately found no evidence of wrongdoing. Quinn’s comments to the press on Tuesday marked her first public statements since the conclusion of the probe.
Expressing her confidence in the organization’s handling of the situation, Quinn stated, “I believe that the organization did the right thing. Throughout this entire process, the communication level was tremendously high. I felt supported in a lot of ways, and I know my staff felt supported as well. When faced with challenges like this, it is crucial to take the appropriate steps, and our organization did just that.”
Seattle general manager Talisa Rhea reiterated her faith in Coach Quinn and the team, led by players Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith. “First, we let the process play out, which was vital for us and the integrity of that process,” she remarked. “Secondly, we have been in close collaboration with Noelle throughout the offseason, and it’s evident through our discussions in free agency that players are eager to be part of this organization. They believe in our vision for Seattle and want to play under Noelle’s leadership.”
Ogwumike recently re-signed with the team as a free agent. Furthermore, the Storm made headlines by trading star guard Jewell Loyd to Las Vegas in a multi-team deal that secured them the No. 2 pick in the draft. Loyd had requested the trade following the investigation’s conclusion, which absolved the coaching staff of any wrongdoing.
Reflecting on Loyd’s departure, Rhea acknowledged her significant contributions to the team, stating, “Jewell played a pivotal role in this organization. She was instrumental in our past successes. Noelle and I have shared in championship victories with Jewell, and we value her time here in Seattle immensely. We will always be grateful for her efforts. Looking ahead, we are excited about the positive direction our roster is taking and the potential stemming from that trade.”
The Storm also welcomed back Alysha Clark as a free agent and acquired Lexie Brown through a trade. Coach Quinn expressed her enthusiasm for the strong roster they have assembled, emphasizing the players’ desire to be part of the organization. She affirmed, “The caliber of our roster speaks volumes about the trust players have in me, my staff, and the organization. It reflects the excellence and integrity that define us in Seattle. I lead by example in upholding these values and aim to continue setting a standard of excellence.”
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