Newly acquired Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd has revealed the difficulties she faced during her 2024 season with the Seattle Storm, detailing the tense atmosphere that ultimately led to her trade. Speaking on The Warehouse’s May 29 podcast, Loyd reflected on the unfolding turmoil that marked her final season after a decade with the Storm.
Obstacles Behind the Scenes Marked Loyd’s Final Year in Seattle
Loyd described a significant shift in the team environment, emphasizing how the Storm deviated from their established values.
“We had a certain standard of how we handle things, how we treat people and all those things. And we swayed from that, and so that was my biggest thing,”
she said. This breakdown in culture contributed to an atmosphere that Loyd called “chaotic,” forcing her to confront difficult emotions while trying to maintain her performance on the court.
She elaborated on this emotional strain:
“I was forced to be in my feelings. I was forced to be in touch with knowing what’s right and what’s wrong. And knowing how to deal with that, and still trying to be productive in the chaos.”
Supporters Also Faced Marginalization Amid Team Unrest
Without naming specific individuals, Loyd revealed that those who publicly supported her during this unsettled period were also marginalized by Seattle’s leadership. She expressed frustration over the treatment of these allies, describing it as deeply troubling.
“How do I say it? What was really like upsetting was how the people that they viewed as supporting you, they started marginalizing them also. Now that part, like that’s sick.”
Loyd’s Dream of a Lifetime Seattle Career Was Derailed
For Loyd, her intention was always to conclude her career in Seattle, where she had begun playing professionally at age 21. She envisioned a lasting legacy connected to the city.
“That was my vision, to retire in Seattle, to give back to the city that literally raised me. I was there since I was 21,”
she shared. However, the escalating challenges obstructed that goal.
Trade to Las Vegas and Initial Adjustment With Aces
In January, Loyd was involved in a three-team trade that sent her to the Las Vegas Aces, a move she said came as a shock. She recounted the moment her agent informed her about the trade via text:
“I get a text, like: ‘Hey, you’re probably gonna go to Vegas in 20 minutes.’ I’m like: What? She’s like, ‘Yeah, you’re going to Vegas, probably.’ Put the phone down, I’m like, there’s no way they’re sending me to (expletive) Vegas. It’s like a contender.”
Since joining the Aces, Loyd has been averaging 10.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over five games, helping the team hold a 3-2 record. Speaking about her new teammates, she praised their drive and unity, saying, “This group, they’re just competitive,” and added,
“And the cool thing is they want me to be at my best. I want them to be at their best.”
Upcoming Clash Against Former Seattle Team
The next challenge for Loyd and the Aces will be a game against her former team in Seattle, scheduled for June 1. This matchup will mark a significant moment as Loyd faces the franchise where she spent the majority of her career under difficult circumstances earlier this year.