Joyner Holmes Returns as Storm Look to Stabilize Early Season Turnover

The Seattle Storm have endured a challenging start to the season as they work through a significant roster transition and adjust to a newly constructed team identity. With chemistry still developing, the organization has begun exploring short-term roster moves aimed at adding stability and energy.

One of those moves came in the form of a hardship contract signing, bringing forward Joyner Holmes back into the franchise. Her return adds a familiar presence to a group that has undergone extensive turnover since the offseason.

Holmes is no stranger to Seattle, having previously spent time with the team during multiple stints in 2023 and 2024. Her familiarity with the system is expected to help her integrate quickly into a rotation still finding its rhythm.

The signing reflects the Storm’s broader effort to remain competitive while navigating early-season roster challenges and adjusting to a new-look lineup.

1. Holmes’ Return and WNBA Journey

Holmes originally entered the WNBA as the No. 19 overall pick in the 2020 draft by the Seattle Storm, though her early career included movement across multiple teams, including a stint with the New York Liberty. Over time, she has carved out a role as a depth contributor capable of providing energy and versatility off the bench. During her 2023 season with Seattle, Holmes appeared in 29 games and averaged 3.2 points and 2.3 rebounds per contest. She also provided efficient perimeter shooting, connecting at 37.1 percent from beyond the arc. The following year, she returned to the Storm for 27 games, averaging 2.9 points while shooting 42.3 percent from the field. While her role remained limited, her production offered reliable depth minutes. Most recently, Holmes spent time with the Las Vegas Aces, appearing in six games last season before rejoining Seattle on a short-term basis.

2. Storm Roster Overhaul and New Direction

Seattle’s early-season struggles have been compounded by a significant offseason roster overhaul that reshaped both its rotation and leadership structure. The franchise introduced a new head coach while integrating several new players into key roles. The departures of several established veterans marked a turning point for the organization. Skylar Diggins joined the Chicago Sky, Nneka Ogwumike signed with the Los Angeles Sparks, and Gabby Williams moved to the Golden State Valkyries, leaving notable gaps in experience and production. In response, the Storm have shifted toward a younger core, prioritizing long-term development over short-term continuity. This transition has created both opportunity and growing pains as new players adjust to expanded responsibilities. The lack of continuity has been a key factor in the team’s uneven start, with chemistry still developing across multiple lineups and rotations.

3. Youth Movement and Long-Term Outlook

Despite early inconsistencies, Seattle’s future direction remains focused on building a young and competitive core. The organization used a high draft pick to select Awa Fam at No. 3 overall, signaling confidence in her long-term potential. The Storm also added Flau’jae Johnson in a draft-night trade with the Golden State Valkyries, further reinforcing their commitment to developing emerging talent. These moves reflect a clear shift toward building through youth and versatility. Second-year forward Dominique Malonga has also emerged as part of that foundation after a promising rookie campaign, giving Seattle additional optimism about its developmental pipeline. While the current season remains a work in progress, the organization views its roster construction as a step toward sustained competitiveness in the future, even if immediate results remain inconsistent.