WNBA Coaching Carousel: Noelle Quinn Out as Storm Begin Search for New Head Coach
SEATTLE – The Seattle Storm are embarking on a coaching search after parting ways with Noelle Quinn, the team announced today. The move comes after a first-round playoff sweep by the las Vegas Aces and follows reports of internal friction stemming from a trade request by star player Jewell Loyd. Quinn, who took the helm early in the 2021 season following the retirement of Dan Hughes, finished her tenure with a regular season record of 57-41 and four playoff appearances.
The Storm’s decision marks the latest shift in the WNBA’s coaching landscape, signaling a period of potential change for several teams as they prepare for the 2026 season.Coaching stability has become increasingly vital in the competitive WNBA, where player empowerment and heightened expectations are reshaping team dynamics. The Storm, despite adding established veterans Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike prior to the 2024 season, underperformed relative to expectations, ultimately contributing to the decision to seek new leadership.
Loyd reportedly requested Quinn’s firing after the playoff loss, an action supported by diggins and Ogwumike. An internal investigation into allegations of bullying and harassment leveled by Loyd found no violations by the coaching staff. Subsequently, Loyd was traded to the Las Vegas Aces.
Quinn’s time with the Storm included a Commissioner’s Cup title in 2021. However, the team struggled to find consistent offensive rhythm, ranking 10th in points per possession in the half-court, according to GeniusIQ tracking.
The Storm possess the no.2 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, dominique Malonga, a 19-year-old rookie ranked fourth on ESPN’s list of top under-25 players.Retaining the core of Diggins, Ogwumike, and Gabby Williams in free agency will be a key priority for the new coach, alongside developing a more efficient half-court offense.
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve holds the longest current tenure in the WNBA. The search for Quinn’s replacement is underway, with the Storm emphasizing the strength of their organization and facilities as selling points for potential candidates.
