Ogwumike and Diggins Forge Dynamic Partnership in Seattle
After years of anticipation, Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins have united in Seattle, reigniting a friendship rooted in their teenage years spent on the USA junior women’s national basketball teams. Their significant history includes winning gold medals across several international competitions from 2008 to 2011, spanning locations like Argentina, Thailand, and China, solidifying their bond long before their recent collaboration in the WNBA.
A Friendship that Spans Two Decades
“I’ve known Nneka for about 20 years,” Diggins shared. “We began crossing paths at various Nike skills camps and USA Invitational camps. Nneka being from Houston and me from Indiana meant we only intersected when we made it out of our respective regional competitions.”
Diggins recalled the high level of competition that surrounded their encounters, emphasizing Ogwumike’s consistent excellence on the court. “It was comforting to know I was in the right place if Nneka was around,” she mentioned. “We laughed about the few who make it to practice with the national team while capturing gold medals, both aspiring to be among the last ones standing.”
Shared Backgrounds and Bonds
Ogwumike, a standout at Stanford, fondly remembers their first meeting, stating, “We met at USA camps in Colorado Springs and just clicked.” Their relationship gained depth and competitiveness, evolving into a unique mutual understanding both on and off the court. “I consider her my sister, and I’m thrilled that our careers have finally aligned in the WNBA,” Ogwumike expressed.
Recalling her role when Diggins visited Stanford, Ogwumike noted, “I hosted her during her recruitment in 2009 before she ultimately chose Notre Dame.” The following year, it was Diggins who returned the favor, welcoming Ogwumike’s sister, Chiney, during her recruitment to Notre Dame.
Divine Timing for a New Chapter
Last year marked a pivotal moment for Diggins as she returned from maternity leave after the birth of her second child. Searching for a new opportunity following a challenging exit from the Phoenix Mercury, she found herself gravitating towards Seattle. At the same time, Ogwumike contemplated the closing chapter of her successful 12-year stint with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she clinched a WNBA title and earned MVP honors in 2016. “It felt like divine timing,” Diggins stated. “When I realized Nneka was serious about her decision, I shared my intentions with her, too.”
Lasting Impressions in the WNBA
The pairing has significantly shaped the Seattle Storm’s trajectory, helping turn around a disappointing 11-29 record in 2023 to a commendable 25-15 performance the following year. Their synergy and leadership on the court helped the team improve its standing within the league, though the season concluded with an early playoff exit.
When asked how she felt about her second season with the Storm, Diggins expressed optimism: “It feels better already. Our team is stronger now, and we hope that translates into improved results across the board.”
Transitioning Beyond Loyd
As they embark on the 2025 season, the Storm is entering a new era following Jewell Loyd’s departure after a contentious end to her tenure. Following an independent investigation that did not support claims of harassment and bullying against the coaching staff, Loyd sought a trade that landed her with the Las Vegas Aces.
The aftermath of this dramatic trade not only reshaped the Storm’s roster but also placed Ogwumike and Diggins at the forefront as influential leaders. Coach Noelle Quinn praised them, stating, “Nneka embodies presidential qualities in her leadership, and Sky is the pulse of our team. They both motivate through action and set high standards without asking others to do what they themselves aren’t willing to give.”
Comparisons to Storm Legends
Ogwumike and Diggins are being likened to the legendary duo of Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson, known for their collaborative excellence. Their abilities to elevate their teammates, maintain a high level of competition, and communicate effortlessly on the court establish them as a formidable pairing in the Storm’s history.
Alysha Clark, who witnessed Bird and Jackson’s dynamic firsthand, remarked, “Sky and Nneka showcase leadership, versatility, and competitiveness. They’re capable of scoring from all levels and are relentless in their pursuits.”
A Veteran Core with New Additions
The veteran-laden lineup now includes strong contributors such as Clark, center Ezi Magbegor, and wing Gabby Williams. The Storm’s roster overhaul has added fresh talent with newcomers like Erica Wheeler, Li Yueru, Zia Cooke, Lexie Brown, and rookie Dominique Malonga, positioning the team for a successful future.
With nine-time All-Star Ogwumike leading as the top returning scorer, boasting impressive averages of 16.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and solid shooting metrics, her role is fundamental for Seattle’s aspirations. “Nneka is the best player on our team, and we strive to complement her strengths,” affirmed Diggins, who averaged 15.1 points and 6.4 assists last season.
Complementary Forces on the Court
The contrasting playing styles of Ogwumike and Diggins create an intriguing dynamic: Diggins, known for her intense and fiery competitiveness, complements Ogwumike’s calm and collected demeanor. “Sky is someone you love to have on your team and loathe to face against,” Ogwumike noted. “Her relentless drive is something I admire and even aspire to embody at times.”
Reflecting on their deep understanding, Diggins expressed, “Nneka allows me to be myself fully. Our years of friendship cultivate an unspoken connection; we instinctively know what the other needs.” With their long history and mutual support, the duo stands poised to make waves as they journey together in Seattle.
As the Storm enters the new season, fans eagerly anticipate the impact that Ogwumike and Diggins will have, both on their individual careers and on the team’s quest for greatness in a continually evolving league.