Seattle Culture
Sue Bird’s Latest Honor? A Seattle City Street.
City renames part of Second Avenue North ‘Sue Bird Court’
By Rob Smith August 26, 2024
You can now go from Lenny Wilkens Way to Sue Bird Court.
The city of Seattle has renamed a portion of Second Avenue North adjacent to Climate Pledge Arena “Sue Bird Court” in recognition of Bird’s contributions on and off the basketball court.
Mayor Bruce Harrell said during a ceremony that Bird, a 12-time WNBA all star who led the Seattle Storm to four championships during her 21-year career, is as much a part of Seattle as the Space Needle or Starbucks.
“Bird is more than a basketball legend. Her legacy transcends the game as a symbol of excellence, determination, and the power of sports to inspire and uplift communities,” Harrell said. “Sue’s name is synonymous with Seattle — a true icon whose impact on our city’s cultural fabric and the world of sports will be felt for generations.”
Bird retired in 2022 as the league’s all-time assist leader. She has also become an entrepreneur and social activist, and is a cofounder of Seattle-based Togethxr, a social media and e-commerce company focused on equality and diversity. Bird and her fiancée, soccer legend Megan Rapinoe, were recently named as two of Seattle magazine’s Most Influential people of 2024.
“When I think back on my time with the Storm — the people I’ve met, the memories I’ve made, the impact this franchise has had off the court, and of course, the championships we’ve won on the court — I’m reminded that some achievements don’t come and go, they don’t get broken, they last forever,” Bird said. “That’s what makes today so special is that I get to add to that list with something that is going to last forever.”
The city renamed a portion of Thomas Street for NBA and Sonics legend Wilkens three years ago.
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