In a major WNBA mid-season shakeup, Brittney Sykes, the standout guard for the Washington Mystics and former Syracuse legend, is being traded to the Seattle Storm, according to a report by ESPN’s Alex Philippou. The deal marks a significant moment in Sykes’ career as she continues her most impressive WNBA season to date.
A Career-Defining Season for Sykes
At 31, Brittney Sykes is experiencing a breakthrough year. Recently named to her first WNBA All-Star Game — a late addition due to injuries to Caitlin Clark and Satou Sabally — Sykes has showcased elite-level play on both ends of the court. She’s averaging:
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15.4 points per game
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3.4 rebounds
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4.4 assists
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1.2 steals
Notably, her assists and steals are the highest on the Washington Mystics, making her not only a scoring threat but a central playmaker and lockdown defender.
From Syracuse Stardom to WNBA Elite
Before turning pro, Sykes made her mark at Syracuse University, where she overcame two major knee surgeries to become one of the school’s most celebrated players. She scored 1,846 career points and started 137 games, becoming a fan favorite for her resilience and explosive playing style.
Her grit, leadership, and defensive tenacity followed her to the WNBA, where she’s now considered one of the league’s top two-way guards.
A Fresh Start with the Seattle Storm
The trade sends Sykes from a struggling Mystics team — currently sitting 9th in the WNBA standings — to the 6th-place Seattle Storm, a squad firmly in playoff contention. Her arrival could be a game-changer for the Storm’s postseason hopes.
Seattle is known for its fast-paced, team-first style of basketball, and Sykes’ versatile skill set fits right into their system. With her ability to score, distribute, and defend, she’s expected to bolster both the backcourt and locker room leadership.
What This Means for the Mystics
While Washington loses its top scorer and one of its most dynamic players, the trade signals a potential rebuilding phase for the Mystics. With Sykes gone, the team may look to develop younger talent and recalibrate for future seasons.
A Personal and Professional Triumph
Sykes’ journey from Syracuse, through injuries, and now to WNBA stardom is a testament to perseverance and passion. Her move to Seattle not only opens new possibilities for team success but also solidifies her place as one of the most impactful players in the league today.
As she joins the Seattle Storm roster, all eyes will be on how quickly she integrates — and how far she can help lead the team in the second half of the season.
🏀 Final Thoughts
Brittney Sykes is more than just a basketball player — she’s a fighter, a leader, and now, a key piece in Seattle’s playoff puzzle. With her All-Star season in full swing, fans in Seattle have every reason to be excited for what comes next.
