Wagner’s Historic Move Bridges NFL and WNBA
The WNBA is booming, and now, one of the NFL’s most respected veterans wants in.
Bobby Wagner, a Super Bowl champion and current linebacker for the Washington Commanders, has joined the ownership group of the Seattle Storm, the WNBA franchise announced Wednesday. Wagner, 35, becomes the first active NFL player to hold equity in a WNBA team, marking a groundbreaking move in professional sports.
“It’s an honor to join the Seattle Storm ownership group and support a franchise that has consistently set the standard in women’s professional sports,” Wagner said in a statement. “This is about more than basketball, it’s about investing in a legacy of excellence, empowering women, and continuing to elevate the game for future generations.”
Wagner is a beloved figure in Seattle, having spent 11 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, where he played a central role in the team’s Super Bowl XLVIII win. His return to the Emerald City in an ownership capacity strengthens his bond with the community and showcases his long-term commitment to the city’s sports culture.
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The Storm’s Rise and Wagner’s Vision for the Future
The Storm’s ownership group already includes some notable names, including WNBA legend Sue Bird and former Microsoft executive Lisa Brummel. Wagner’s involvement not only adds credibility but also shines a bigger spotlight on the WNBA’s rising profile.
According to Forbes, the Storm were valued at $330 million as of June, underscoring the league’s financial growth. With a current record of 14-10, Seattle is tracking toward the No. 4 seed in the playoffs and aiming for a fifth championship. The team has previously won titles in 2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020.
Wagner’s investment is more than just a financial move. It’s a symbol of changing times. As more male athletes publicly support women’s sports, partnerships like these highlight a new era of collaboration, visibility, and shared growth across professional leagues.
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