The Seattle Storm has selected Spanish center Awa Fam with the No. 3 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a strategic move for the team as it aims to revitalize its roster.
Why it matters: Awa Fam is seen as a promising prospect who could significantly contribute to the Storm's future. As the team looks to recover from two consecutive first-round playoff exits, her addition could be a key part of their rebuilding strategy.
The Storm has struggled recently, finishing the last two seasons with playoff exits in the first round.
Fam, who turns 20 on June 17, 2026, is expected to develop under the guidance of new head coach Sonia Raman, who has a strong background in player development.
With Fam's international experience, including competing in the EuroLeague and for Spain's national teams, she brings valuable skills to the squad.
Driving the news: The Storm made headlines during the 2026 WNBA Draft held on April 13 in New York, where they secured Fam with the third pick, acquired from the Los Angeles Sparks in a trade for guard Kia Nurse.
Fam, currently playing for Valencia Basket, signed with the club at just 15 years old, becoming the youngest player in the team's history.
She averaged 9.1 points and 4.9 rebounds per game in the EuroLeague this season, demonstrating her potential at a high competitive level.
Her standout performance came during the 2025-26 season when she scored a season-high 17 points against Fenerbahçe Opet.
State of play: The Storm's roster changes include the addition of free agent Stefanie Dolson to fill the center position, allowing Fam time to acclimate to the WNBA.
Dolson, along with returning players like Dominique Malonga, who averaged 7.4 points and 4.6 rebounds last season, creates a balanced frontcourt.
Raman's coaching style, which emphasizes analytics and player development, could be beneficial for Fam's growth.
Seattle’s team overhaul also includes signing guard Natisha Hiedeman and forward Katie Lou Samuelson, alongside re-signing Zia Cooke and Mackenzie Holmes.
The big picture: International players like Fam are increasingly becoming central to WNBA success, and the Storm hopes that trend continues.
Fam has already represented Spain at both youth and senior levels, highlighting her extensive experience on the international stage.
She played a key role in Spain’s silver medal win at the 2023 FIBA Under-19 World Cup, averaging 10.7 points and 8.1 rebounds.
Her participation in the 2025 FIBA Women’s EuroBasket and World Cup qualifying tournaments has showcased her ability to perform under pressure.
What they're saying: General Manager Talisa Rhea expressed enthusiasm about Fam's potential, emphasizing her dynamic talent and professional experience.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Awa to Seattle,” Rhea said. “We’ve been watching Awa emerge as one of the most dynamic young talents in the world.”
Fam herself is excited about joining the Storm, stating, "I’m grateful to be part of a team with such a strong vision for the future of women’s basketball."
By the numbers: In her time with Valencia Basket, Fam has played 39 games during the current EuroLeague and Liga Femenina Endesa seasons.
She averaged 8.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per game this season.
In her youth national team career, Fam averaged 13.1 points and 10.1 rebounds during the 2022 FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship.
Her average across three tournaments with the senior national team stands at 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds.
What's next: Fam will continue to develop her skills as part of a revamped Storm team aiming for a return to playoff contention.
The Storm will kick off their season with a focus on integrating new players and building chemistry on the court.
Fans can expect to see Fam in action as she joins her new teammates for training camp, scheduled to begin in May 2026.
For tickets and more information about the upcoming season, visit storm.wnba.com.