A Tough Choice Pays Off: Amanda Lassiter

In the end, Dunn pulled the trigger, making one of the franchise’s boldest moves. “This is a very, very difficult day for me,” she said. “Sonja is one of the original members of the Storm and she has provided enormous leadership throughout the three-year history of this franchise. It’s a decision that I felt was in the best interest in the growth of the Seattle Storm.”

The 23-year old Lassiter replaces the 31-year old Henning, instantly making an already young Storm team younger (the team's average age is 24). She also solidifies the small forward position, giving Dunn a player who can do a bit of everything.

“Amanda brings all the things that we need - size, speed and athleticism - at the small forward position,” Dunn said. “She can score, put the ball on the floor and hit the three-point shot.”

Dunn didn’t waste any time putting Lassiter on the floor. Less than 24 hours after Seattle and Houston completed the trade, Lassiter was suited up for her first game in a Storm uniform. Against the L.A. Sparks on June 18th, Lassiter played 22 minutes, scoring seven points and grabbing six rebounds.

Finally for Lassiter, Houston’s first round pick in 2001, struggling for minutes won’t be an issue. With the Comets, the 6-1 forward had to play behind All-Star Sheryl Swoopes. In eight games Lassiter was averaging less than nine minutes per game. It was frustrating to say the least.

“I was happy [about the trade]. All I want to do is play,” she said. “I want to help this team any way possible.”

For Lassiter, it’s a new system with different sets and terminology. It will take time for her to get everything down. The extra work doesn’t bother her. Besides, her new teammates have helped every step of the way.

“Coming in I didn’t know what to expect,” Lassiter said. “But everything has been so great. [The team] welcomed me with open arms and they helped me out a lot [against the Sparks], constantly talking to me on the court. They’ve made me really comfortable.

With the nucleus of Sue Bird and Lauren Jackson, Lassiter is determined to help the Storm make a run for the postseason. Optimism is running high.

“There’s no reason,” she said, “why we can’t be the top team in the West.”