Sue Bird honored in last regular season game in Seattle

Sue Bird received a farewell fit for a legend on Sunday in the Seattle Storm’s final home regular season game.

The 41-year-old announced before the season that her 19th year with the Storm would be her last, triggering a wave of celebrations across the WNBA.

“Right now I just want to say, from the bottom of my heart, how thankful I am,” Bird said before Sunday’s game, which Seattle lost to the Las Vegas Aces 89-81. “Not only for today, and all of you showing up and supporting us, but for 21 years … This place is not only where I played, it’s where I call home.”

The Storm honored Bird with a pregame ceremony in front of a sell-out crowd at Climate Pledge Arena. The star guard was presented with a custom ring commemorating her four WNBA championships, her 13 All-Star appearances and her status as the league’s all-time assists leader.

We love you, @S10Bird 💚💛

Thank you for everything you have given to Seattle and the game of basketball. #TheFinalFlight pic.twitter.com/UidfAziZJe

— Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) August 7, 2022

Before the game, Seattle mayor Bruce Harrell declared Aug. 7 “Sue Bird Day” in recognition of Bird’s contributions to the Storm and the city of Seattle during her storied WNBA career.

⛈️ @MayorofSeattle has officially declared today Sue Bird Day in the city of Seattle!

We're so proud that you've called this city home for 21 years, @S10Bird! #TheFinalFlight pic.twitter.com/QIBkTkEnn7

— Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) August 7, 2022

Depending on Seattle’s seeding for the playoffs, which begin Aug. 17, Sunday could have marked Bird’s last game in front of a Seattle crowd.

The Storm are currently battling for the No. 4 seed, which would secure them home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.