Golden State Just Handed Seattle the Prize Everyone Wanted, and It Happened in One Shocking Hour

The Seattle Storm pulled off a heist at the WNBA draft Monday night in New York. Less than 60 minutes after the Golden State Valkyries selected Flau'jae Johnson with the No. 8 pick, the two-time LSU All-American and 2023 national champion was headed to the Emerald City. Golden State traded Johnson to Seattle in exchange for the draft rights to Marta Suarez, whom the Storm had selected at No. 16 overall, plus a 2028 second-round pick.

The Flau'jae Factor Lands in Seattle

Johnson is one of the biggest names and most dynamic guards in women's basketball. She helped LSU win its first national championship during her freshman season and has been a massive draw ever since. She is also a well-known rapper signed with Roc Nation. Getting her on the roster is a statement move for the Storm, and it signals they are serious about competing immediately.

Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin kept her cards close to her chest about the trade. "I'm going to take a beat to be able to eloquently give a response," Nyanin said Monday night. "I don't have a lot of detail to share. One, because I'm exhausted. Two, because I want to be very thoughtful when I'm talking about other humans and their basketball abilities and how they would or would not show up for our squad." When asked about salary cap implications, Nyanin declined to comment.

Seattle's Draft Haul Gets Even Deeper

The Storm were already aggressive Monday night. They selected Awa Fam Thiam with the No. 3 pick. Now, adding Johnson gives Seattle a roster that includes other young stars like Dominique Malonga, the No. 2 pick from the 2025 draft, and Ezi Magbegor, who is 26 years old and entering her seventh season.

Storm general manager Talisa Rhea made it clear the team was hunting for a move. "The opportunity to add Flau'jae was really exciting and incredible for us," Rhea said. "We didn't think that she would be available."

Who Is Marta Suarez?

The player Seattle sent to Golden State, Suarez, is a 6-foot-3 post player who previously played at Tennessee, Cal, and most recently TCU. She averaged 17.1 points and 7.4 rebounds this season while shooting 37% from 3-point range. She is a scorer and a floor spacer for the Valkyries going forward.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.