Olympic star criticizes the WNBA prioritization rule

The Seattle Storm signed French forward Gabby Williams after her impressive performance in the 2024 Olympics. During her first media availability with the team, she criticized the WNBA’s prioritization rule, which requires players with two or more years of experience to report to training camp by a set date to remain eligible.

“It shouldn't be a blanket rule,” the 27-year-old said. “I think if a team can handle it, they can handle it. If not, don't sign European players or players that play in Europe.”

Williams, a five-season WNBA veteran, averaged 15.5 points on 48 percent shooting during France’s silver-medal run this summer. She made the Olympic All-Star Five and won Best Defensive Player, leading to her recruitment back to the league. She became a free agent after not re-signing with Seattle earlier this year to focus on the Olympics and has now returned to the Storm for the remainder of the 2024 season.

The wage structure, season length and international talent in women’s basketball justify Williams’ distaste for the punitive rule. Many players needing supplemental income play overseas once the WNBA season ends in October, taking advantage of a European season that generally runs on an opposite schedule.



https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/olympic_star_criticizes_the_wnba_prioritization_rule/s1_13132_40788204