Gabby Williams: Seattle Storm's Defensive Dynamo and All-Star
Gabby Williams has emerged as a defensive powerhouse for the Seattle Storm in the 2025 WNBA season. Her stellar performance has made her a leading candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year Award, showcasing her impact on the team's success.
Defensive Dominance and Steals Record
Williams has distinguished herself through her remarkable ability to generate steals, amassing 98 steals heading into the final game of the regular season. This places her significantly ahead of her competitors, highlighting her exceptional instincts and timing on the court. Coach Noelle Quinn praises her "instinctual type of basketball player defensively," emphasizing her ability to consistently get her hands on the ball and take on the opposition's top guards with pride.
Only two players in WNBA history have previously achieved 90-plus steals in a season: Teresa Weatherspoon with 100 in 1998 and Tamika Catchings, who accomplished this feat four times. Since Catchings' impressive run, Jordin Canada's 86 steals in 2023 were the highest until Williams' breakout season. She had multiple steals in 27 games this season, including a career high and team record of eight against the Los Angeles Sparks.
Williams stated that her defensive prowess stems from the team's exceptional communication and support. She emphasizes the importance of knowing that she has help behind her, which allows her to anticipate plays and generate deflections and steals.
Versatility and Impact Beyond Steals
Gabby Williams is not just a defensive specialist; she contributes significantly to the Storm's offense as well. She averages 11.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, showcasing her well-rounded skillset. Her versatility allows her to guard multiple positions, providing the Storm with defensive flexibility.
Skylar Diggins highlights Williams' versatility and athleticism, which enable her to guard various players and create offensive opportunities for the team. Diggins considers her to be one of the best players in the game for her defensive prowess and impact on both ends of the court.
All-Star Recognition and Increased Role
Williams' impressive 2025 campaign was rewarded with her first All-Star appearance. She embraced a more prominent role, filling the void created by Jewell Loyd's departure and easing the offensive burden on Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins. Coach Quinn lauded her for her willingness to sacrifice and do what the team needs, referring to her as the "French Army knife" for her versatility.
According to Diggins, the biggest obstacle to Williams' success was her availability due to international commitments. After missing large portions of previous seasons, Williams has been present since Day 1 this year, leading to exponential growth. She spent 2022-24 playing for ASVEL in France's top domestic league, which runs through the start of the WNBA campaign, but has put that in the past.
International Experience and Growth
Williams credits her experience with the French women's national team for her enhanced performance. Leading Les Bleues in scoring, assists, and steals at the Paris Olympics, she was named the Best Defensive Player of the tournament and selected to the All-Star Five. These high-pressure situations have helped her remain calm and productive in crucial moments.
Williams is averaging career highs in points and assists, and she's tied for fifth in total fast-break points. The Storm score significantly more points per 100 possessions when she's on the court.
Playoff Outlook
The Seattle Storm will need Williams to maintain her high level of play as they enter the playoffs. Her defense generates transition opportunities, as evidenced by the Storm's league-leading statistics in points off turnovers and fast-break points. Williams led the league in deflections and was tied for 12th in points off turnovers.
The Storm begin their first-round playoff series against the Las Vegas Aces. Ogwumike appreciates Williams' contributions to the team's defensive schemes, noting her maturity in coaching the game from the court. Ultimately, Williams' goal is to be the best possible player for the team, focusing on her daily contributions and embracing her role.
