By: Jennifer Portee
4/14/2026
Seattle turned draft night into a statement. In one move, they secured a defensive phenom. In the next, they brought in one of the most electric personalities women’s basketball has ever seen.
With the No. 3 overall pick, the Seattle Storm selected Senegalese forward Awa Fam Thiam, a versatile 6-foot-5 powerhouse whose length and instincts make her an instant defensive disruptor. But the headline moment came later, when Seattle pulled off a blockbuster acquiring Flau’jae Johnson from the Golden State Valkyries, who had drafted the LSU star at No. 8.
If Thiam was Seattle’s foundation move, Johnson was the energy boost. The LSU standout, rapper, and elite scorer brings more than buckets she brings culture, confidence, charisma, and a personality built for bright lights. As she put it, “I bring a little flavor everywhere I go.”
Johnson’s expected to bring in as a high energy wing attacking the rim, defending multiple positions, and using that explosive first step to push tempo.
As for Thiam, her addition gives Seattle an anchor in the paint someone who can guard bigs, switch onto wings, and own the glass. Pairing her agility with Magbegor’s rim protection sets the tone for a team that wants to defend first and run wild second.
The Storm didn’t just have a great draft they changed their trajectory. Johnson’s star power meets Thiam’s steadiness, and together, they embody the next wave of Seattle basketball: fast, fearless, and full of purpose.
Seattle’s not rebuilding they’re reloading, with thunder in their step.