By John “Woods” Armwood III
For Skylar Diggins, basketball has always been more than a game—it’s been a purpose, a refuge, and a stage where her competitive spirit burns brightest.
“I think just finding what you’re passionate about no matter what it is. And for me, that’s basketball. I’m just passionate about the game,” Diggins says. “That was the environment that I was raised in. I love to compete. And every night that’s what I try to show.”
It’s this raw passion that defines Diggins' presence on the court. She’s not merely playing basketball; she’s living it. From her days dazzling at Notre Dame to becoming one of the WNBA’s premier guards, she’s built a career on relentless drive, fierce scoring, and emotional intensity that electrifies teammates and fans alike.
A New Chapter in Seattle
But now, with a new jersey on her back in Seattle, Diggins finds herself writing a fresh chapter in a storied career—one rooted not just in personal accolades but in the pursuit of collective greatness.
“I mean, I follow cues from a lot of my teammates,” she explains, acknowledging the championship pedigree woven throughout the Storm roster. “Obviously Noe has coached championships. She’s been a part of the championship team. AC has three championships. Nneka has a championship. Lexi has a championship. Ezi has a championship. Gabby has won on every stage. And so I take my cues from them.”
Fiery Passion & Emotional Leadership
This humility and willingness to listen speak volumes about Diggins evolution as a leader. Despite her star power, she recognizes that true success comes from shared knowledge and respect.
“They look to me as more emotional leadership,” she says. “But we all have ways that we look to each other in leadership. That’s really essential to our success.”
Indeed, Diggins has always worn her heart on her sleeve. She’s candid about the mental battles elite athletes face and how vital it is to find a support system, whether on the court or off.
“Just find out what you’re passionate about. Find mentors and positive people that think like you, people that have been around your industry and game, and just continue to work and perfect your craft.”
That mindset has carried Diggins through injuries, personal milestones, and high-pressure moments, forging her into not just a player but a force.
Unfazed in New Era for the Storm
Yet, she remains unfazed by the weight of expectations. Her competitive flame remains undimmed, even as she embraces a new city, new teammates, and new challenges.
“I don’t give a damn. It doesn’t scare me none. I like to compete, and I like the group that we have that has my back to go out there and do it.”
This season in Seattle, Diggins isn’t just chasing wins—she’s laying the foundation for something bigger. She’s eager to fuse her own fire with the experience and hardware her teammates bring. Together, they’re aiming to carve out a new era for the Storm. While she’s quick to share credit, Diggins' relentless spirit has left an indelible mark on those she’s worked with across the league, including former Phoenix Mercury and current New York Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello.
“Yeah, look, I had a great experience coaching Skylar in Phoenix, and we went to the Finals and obviously lost to Chicago, but she was such a big reason why we got there,” Brondello reflected. “She continues to get better. She’s a mother of two—I mean, that’s just a wonderful story as well, and how she’s able to do that at a high level and come out and play at a high level. She’s a fierce competitor if you haven’t worked that out yet. She hates losing, but she loves her teammates, and she pushes them to be better. So look, I’m proud of her. Today I don’t want her to be on the winning side, but I love what she’s doing on the court these past few years.”
For Skylar Diggins, greatness isn’t merely about stats or trophies. It’s about passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of the next challenge. And as long as there’s a game to play, she’ll be right there—competing, leading, and reminding everyone why she’s one of the fiercest competitors the WNBA has ever seen.