Seattle Storm Designates Gabby Williams as Core Player, Restricting Free Agency Options

The WNBA star is offered a one-year supermax deal but loses the ability to freely negotiate with other teams.

The Seattle Storm has used its core player designation on Gabby Williams, guaranteeing her a one-year supermax salary of $249,244 but restricting her from signing with other teams.
Williams and her representatives were reportedly not surprised by the designation and are collaborating with the Storm to determine her next steps.
The designation follows a standout 2024 season for Williams, where she averaged career-highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals despite playing just 12 games after returning from international commitments.
While the move secures Williams' position with the Storm, it limits her autonomy, a concern she had previously voiced when considering free agency options.
The Storm’s decision comes as the team faces broader offseason uncertainties, including a trade request from six-time All-Star Jewell Loyd and free agency decisions involving other key players.