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In a somewhat surprising yet strategic move, the Seattle Storm announced Monday that they re-signed veteran forward Joyner Holmes, just three weeks after she was waived due to the WNBA’s hard salary cap constraints. The decision to bring Holmes back comes as the team navigates its roster and salary cap dynamics, aiming to optimize their lineup for the remainder of the season.
Holmes, who had been working out individually in Seattle, expressed her determination and positive mindset throughout the uncertainty.
“I've been busting my (butt),” Holmes said after practicing with the team on Monday, as reported by Kevin Pelton of ESPN. “I just didn't want to have any lapse. I wanted to come back and I wanted to fit right in. I think today kind of showed that a little bit. Work out the kinks, things like that. Tried to stay positive through the whole situation. Like I was just telling (assistant coach) Pokey (Chatman), I love the people here and it feels like home.”
Storm had to initially waive Joyner Holmes due to salary cap
At the start of the season, the Storm faced a tough decision due to the salary cap, which forced them to choose between keeping Holmes or fellow veteran Victoria Vivians. Vivians, who has started all eight games this season at small forward, was prioritized, leading to Holmes being the final cut to trim the roster to 11 players for the regular season.
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The dynamics changed as the season progressed, and the financial gap between Holmes' prorated veteran minimum salary and the lower salary of 2023 second-round pick Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu decreased. Last Friday, the Storm waived Fankam Mendjiadeu, who had only logged 36 minutes off the bench thus far, creating a salary cap space that allowed for Holmes' return.
Richard Cohen of HerHoopStats.com highlighted that Holmes' salary now fits under the cap as Seattle's 11th player, making her re-signing viable. Holmes, who averaged 3.2 points and 2.3 rebounds per game in 29 appearances for the Storm last season, had an impactful preseason before being waived, scoring 13 points in two games.
Holmes initially came to Seattle during the 2023 season from the Los Angeles Sparks. She played five games for the Sparks, averaging 4.2 points per game and 3.4 rebounds with splits of 34.8% shooting from the field, 28.6% shooting from the three-point line and 75% shooting from the free-throw line.
Storm coach Noelle Quinn indicated her readiness to reintegrate Holmes into the lineup, potentially as soon as Tuesday night when Seattle hosts the Phoenix Mercury.
“If you look at the matchups coming up as well,” Quinn said, “it's a lot of small ball – a lot of opportunity for her to defend like-sized players, bigger guards essentially. I know that's not ideal at the end of the day, but we have practice and I trust that she's ready.”
Holmes’ return is seen as a strategic reinforcement for the Storm, particularly as the team seeks versatility and depth in their forward positions. Her familiarity with the team's system and her physical readiness make her a valuable addition as Seattle aims to strengthen its performance in the ongoing season.
