Seattle Storm Sign Mackenzie Holmes After Li Yueru Trade

The Seattle Storm have re-signed forward Mackenzie Holmes, filling the roster spot opened by the trade of center Li Yueru to the Dallas Wings for future draft picks. Holmes, drafted 26th overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, missed her rookie season due to knee surgery but impressed during the preseason with strong shooting, rebounds, and blocks. Holmes had initially been waived during the preseason despite signing a rookie contract earlier in the year. Her return adds significant value to the Storm, given her standout college career at Indiana University where she became the school's all-time leader in points, field goals made, field goal percentage, and wins. Li Yueru sought more playing time, averaging 2.8 points and 1.6 rebounds in under nine minutes per game during her time with Seattle before the trade. The move reflects the Storm's strategy to bolster their roster with proven talent while acquiring future assets.