Seattle Storm re-sign All-WNBA guard Jewell Loyd to multi-year contract

The Storm put the core designation on Loyd at the beginning of free agency

The Seattle Storm have gotten the band back together. With Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart all set to return for next season, the last order of business was re-signing Jewell Loyd, which the team officially completed on Tuesday.  Terms were not announced, but it is reportedly a multi-year deal, according to Rachel Galligan of Just Women's Sports. 

With Stewart, Loyd and Bird all hitting unrestricted free agency this winter, there was a real chance that the big three that had won two titles together would break up. Especially considering the Storm could use the core designation on just one of Stewart or Loyd. Ultimately, they chose Loyd, perhaps because they felt she was most likely to leave. In any case, she's now back, which is great news for the Storm as they try to chase a record-setting fifth championship in Bird's final season. 

"Jewell is a special talent with a tremendous work ethic and having her back greatly improves our chances of contending for a fifth championship," Storm head coach Noelle Quinn said. "Last season, she evolved into an elite defender, combining with her offensive firepower to solidify why she's among the best in the league."

Loyd, who has at times been overshadowed playing alongside Stewart and Bird, finally got the recognition she deserves last season. After putting up 17.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals per game, all of which were career-highs, Loyd was named to the All-WNBA First Team for the first time in her career, and also made her third All-Star Game. She's always been a dangerous perimeter scorer, and has continued to refine her game on that end of the floor. And with her defense improving all the time, she's well established as one of the best guards in the league. 

"Seattle is my second home and I'm excited to return and win more championships with this amazing group," Loyd said.

Last season ended on a disappointing note for the Storm, as they were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs with Stewart watching on the sidelines due to an Achilles injury. But with the big three all healthy and committed to next season, the Storm will once again be in the championship race.