Sue Bird Honored with Historic Statue Outside Climate Pledge Arena

On August 20, 2023, the Seattle Storm unveiled a statue of legendary former guard Sue Bird, marking a significant moment in both sports history and the recognition of female athletes. The ceremony took place before the Storm’s game against the Phoenix Mercury at the newly renovated Climate Pledge Arena. Bird became the first player in the WNBA to receive such an honor from her franchise, a milestone that she embraced with humility and pride.

During her speech, Bird reflected on the significance of being the first. “People keep asking me what it feels like to be the first,” she stated. “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.” Bird’s career, which spanned two decades entirely with the Storm, included leading the team to four WNBA championships and retiring as the league’s all-time leader in games played, minutes played, and assists.

Bird’s achievements extend beyond mere statistics. At the ceremony, Lauren Jackson, a three-time MVP and Bird’s longtime teammate, emphasized that Bird’s greatness transcends numbers. “Greatness changes the game. Greatness evolves,” Jackson remarked. Similarly, Swin Cash, a Hall of Famer and Bird’s teammate at both the collegiate and professional level, noted that Bird’s influence on the sport is undeniable.

The statue, crafted by Julie Rotblatt-Amrany of the Roblatt Amrany Studio, depicts Bird in a classic layup pose, a choice that holds personal significance. Bird explained, “My very first points in the WNBA at KeyArena as a rookie were on a layup. My very final points in the WNBA were at Climate Pledge on a layup.” The statue captures her in Nike Air Zoom Huarache sneakers, the same shoes she wore during her first Olympic gold medal win and the Storm’s inaugural championship in 2004.

This honor is part of a broader recognition of Bird’s contributions to basketball and her community. In 2023, the Storm retired her No. 10 jersey, and last summer, the street adjacent to the arena was renamed Sue Bird Court. Bird is also set to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame later this year, further solidifying her legacy.

Bird’s statue stands out not only for its artistic merit but also for its symbolism. She noted, “There’s just not a lot of women that are honored in this way, and we have tons of men.” Bird takes pride in being recognized alongside esteemed male athletes such as Ken Griffey, Jr. and Edgar Martinez, whose statues grace the Seattle landscape, as well as Lenny Wilkens, a former player and coach for the Seattle SuperSonics.

As she concluded her speech, Bird’s reflections turned personal. “I came to Seattle as Sue Bird the basketball player while leaving as Sue Bird the Seattleite,” she shared. The statue serves as a lasting tribute, ensuring a piece of her remains in Seattle forever. “When you inevitably see a little bird poop on the shoulder, don’t worry about it,” she humorously added. “Just consider it family checking in and reminding me where home is.”

The unveiling of Sue Bird’s statue marks a pivotal moment for women in sports, highlighting the importance of representation and recognition in professional athletics. Bird’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, as she stands not only as a remarkable player but also as a trailblazer for women in sports.