The Seattle Storm have made a significant move by acquiring Brittney Sykes from the Washington Mystics. In return, the Mystics receive Alysha Clark, Zia Cooke, and a 2026 first-round draft pick. This trade aims to bolster the Storm's play-off push as they currently hold sixth place with a 16-13 record.
Sykes, aged 31, has been impressive this season, averaging 15.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. Her performance earned her an All-Star selection for the first time in her eight-year WNBA career. Known for her defensive prowess, she has been named to the All-Defensive Team four times.

Alysha Clark departs Seattle after contributing to their WNBA championships in 2018 and 2020. Over her 12-year career with the Storm, she played 300 games, ranking fifth in franchise history. This season, however, Clark's averages have dipped to 3.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game.
The addition of Sykes strengthens a Seattle lineup that already includes standout players like Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins. Meanwhile, Zia Cooke moves to Washington after averaging modest numbers in her second professional season: 3.3 points and minimal contributions in rebounds and assists.
The Mystics are currently trailing the Golden State Valkyries by one game for the final play-off spot. They hope that adding experienced players like Clark can help them secure a place in the postseason.
This trade reflects strategic adjustments by both teams as they aim to enhance their rosters for better outcomes in upcoming games.