Seattle Storm’s Coaching Staff Under Investigation After Players File Complaints of Bullying & Harassment Against Team Leadership

The Seattle Storm coaching staff is under investigation for alleged mistreatment of players, according to an explosive report.

Multiple players have reportedly lodged complaints, accusing the Storm’s coaching staff, led by Noelle Quinn, of harassment and bullying during games and practices. The alleged incidents were tied to players’ on-court performances. A law firm hired by the team has been investigating these allegations for at least two weeks.

This is shocking for those familiar with Quinn’s background, considering her pivotal role within the franchise. She was part of the Storm’s 2018 title team, played for the organization across multiple stints, and joined the coaching staff in 2019. Promoted to associate head coach in 2020 after Dan Hughes’ medical departure, Quinn helped lead the team to a championship that season. After Hughes’ retirement, she became the team’s head coach in 2021 and signed a multi-year contract extension in September 2023.

It’s unclear whether the complaints are specifically aimed at Quinn, her staff, or both. The assistant coaching roster includes Perry Huang, Ebony Hoffman, and Pokey Chatman.

The timing of this controversy adds another layer of worry. The Storm went into the offseason with monumental signings: Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Jewell Loyd, Ezi Magbegor, and Gabby Williams. Despite all this talent, they finished 25-15 and were swept by the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in the first round of the playoffs. With free agency looming for key players like Ogwumike, Williams, Mercedes Russell, and Sami Whitcomb, and the disturbing probe, the team’s future hangs in the balance.

This is a bombshell for the Storm and the WNBA as a whole. An investigation like this could potentially tarnish the reputation of one of the league’s most celebrated franchises.