The bar — given both her already-productive WNBA career, and her exhilarating performance for France in 2024’s Paris Olympics — already appeared to be reasonably high, regarding Gabby Williams’ impact in her return to the Seattle Storm. As the Atlanta Dream can certainly attest, however tall it was, it certainly wasn’t too lofty for Williams’ athleticism and wingspan to overcome. Assigned the all-important task of mirroring Rhyne Howard on a potential go-ahead shot attempt, Williams, in lockdown defender mode, eliminates all could-be suspense by ascending through the skies for a one-handed, cornerback-like steal, sealing victory on August 28, 2024. Calling Seattle a place that “feels like home,” Williams left the city with plenty to celebrate in fulfilling different roles all throughout her season’s first start. With big-time offensive showcases soon to arrive in the following weeks, Williams excelled at the intangibles, recording three points, five rebounds, one assist, one game-winning steal, and a +5 plus-minus in 32 minutes. · Aug 29, 2024