The Seattle Storm are betting on grit and physicality to fuel their future, selecting Michigan State standout Grace VanSlooten with the 39th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. The 6-foot-3 forward brings a hard-nosed, blue-collar style to a franchise seeking to recapture its championship identity.

For a Storm team that has faced early playoff exits in recent years, VanSlooten represents a foundational piece for the rebuild. Her game is built on relentless effort—crashing the glass, defending multiple positions, and playing with a toughness that can shift a team's culture. After hoisting trophies in 2018 and 2020, Seattle is clearly investing in players who embody that same competitive fire.

VanSlooten's journey to this moment was defined by steady growth and clutch performances. Transferring from Oregon to Michigan State, she immediately became the Spartans' engine in the paint. Her senior season was a masterclass in all-around production: averaging 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and nearly 2 steals per game while shooting 50% from the field. She was the definition of a two-way anchor.

But it was in March where she truly shined. Leading Michigan State to back-to-second round NCAA Tournament appearances, VanSlooten saved her best for the bright lights. In a tense first-round win over Colorado State, she powered through with a crucial double-double, showcasing the very resilience Seattle now hopes to harness.

For Storm fans and anyone who appreciates fundamental, hard-hat basketball, VanSlooten's arrival is exciting. She's not just a draft pick; she's a statement. As Seattle looks to forge its next contender, they've added a player whose game is built for the grind of the WNBA. The path back to contention starts with effort, and Grace VanSlooten brings that in abundance.