Sonia Raman and Dominique Malonga, the revival duo for the Seattle Storm

After a season spent as an assistant Sandy Brondello at the New York Liberty, Sonia Raman was recruited by Seattle Storm to succeed Noel Quinn on her bench.

Talisa Rhea, the Storm’s new general manager, didn’t hesitate to describe the Indian-origin coach, an assistant with the Grizzlies between 2020 and 2024, as “pioneer”.

“From my first conversation with Sonja, I felt the potential for an exceptional collaboration”explains Talisa Rhea. “She is a trailblazer and learning about the journey she took to get to Seattle was very moving. His vision for the team’s future immediately excited us.”

“It’s a great honor to be here and to be in this position”confides Sonia Raman. “Obviously it’s a big responsibility, but I’ve said it before: I want to be the first, but definitely not the last. I’m doing my best to open doors, create opportunities and show the next generation what’s possible.”

Dominique Malonga and Lexi Brown, the only players still under contract

Sonia Raman’s main mission will be to revive the Storm after a disappointing season in 2025. Seattle finished the regular season in seventh place before being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Aces.

To meet this challenge, it will have a workforce that will be almost completely renewed. Until today, only Dominique Malonga and Lexi Brown are still under contract with the franchise. The Frenchwoman experienced a two-speed rookie season: the first one she was benched by Noel Quinn, she gradually gained time and put together several notable performances, including a 22-point, 12-rebound game against Ace Ay Wilson in August.

“On the pitch, Sonia is a leader in player analysis and development, two essential aspects of an ever-evolving game”underlines Talisa Rhea. “We immediately accepted his approach, which puts human relationships at the center of the project. It is this base that allows us to create strong bonds with the players, so that they can give their best, individually and collectively. With her experience, she brings a new perspective that we did not have here.”