SEATTLE — The slumping Seattle Storm, who are at the back of a crowded WNBA playoff chase for top-four seed, re-signed former standout forward Gabby Williams for the rest of the season.

The deal has reportedly been in the works for days following the Paris Olympics where Williams starred while leading France to a silver medal.

“We’re thrilled to have Gabby back with the Storm,” Storm coach Noelle Quinn said in a statement. “Gabby is a dynamic player who brings tremendous versatility.

“She’s a two-way player that can guard multiple positions and has a strong offensive game; given her familiarity with our system, we know she can have an immediate impact. Gabby’s Olympic performance showcased her world-class talent, and we’re excited to have her join us as we push for the playoffs.”

The 26-year-old Williams, who was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2018 draft by the Chicago Sky, has played the last two seasons in Seattle after being acquired in a trade with Los Angeles before the start of the 2022 season.

Two years ago, she started all 36 games while averaging 7.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while connecting on a career-best 44.4% from the field. She nabbed WNBA all-defensive team honors for the first time after finishing eighth in steals (1.5 per game).

Last year, Williams missed the first half of the season and appeared in just 10 games while averaging 8.4 points, 3.8 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals. Her second stint in Seattle was cut short after suffering a season-ending stress fracture in her left foot.

Williams, an unrestricted free agent, chose to remain in France during the start of the 2024 WNBA season to train with the French national team in preparation for the Paris Olympics.

The 5-foot-11 forward put on a showcase during the Summer Games while being named the Best Defensive Player and selected to the All-Star Five at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Williams, who averaged 5.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.8 steals in six games, was magnificent in the championship game against the U.S. while scoring 19 points, including five in the final five seconds.

She nearly pushed the game into overtime with a last-second jumper, but her foot was just inside the three-point line and the Americans escaped with a 67-66 win.

“I’m so excited to be joining the Storm for the rest of the season,” Williams said. “I feel more than ready to finally return to Seattle. I’ve missed the organization, my teammates and the fans so much. I absolutely can’t wait to come back and finish the season strong.”

It was believed the WNBA’s stringent prioritization rule, which requires unsigned players to complete overseas commitments before May 1, would prohibit Williams from playing in the WNBA this season.

Reportedly several teams were suitors for Williams, who reportedly did not want to join a team that would core her next season. Following the 2024 season, she’s expected to be an unrestricted free agent again.

Williams plans to fly to Seattle later this week for a physical and the team has scheduled an introductory news conference Friday. She’s expected to be available when the Storm host the Washington Mystics on Monday.

Williams’ return likely means promising second-year forward Jordan Horston will move back to the bench.

The Storm released backup point guard Kiana Williams to create a roster spot for Williams.

Following a couple of losses, the Storm (17-10) have slipped to fifth in the WNBA standings. The top four teams host in the first round of the playoffs.

____

©2024 The Seattle Times. Visit seattletimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.