Before Nika Muhl received an offer from the University of Washington’s women’s basketball team, she had already admired Sue Bird through highlight videos on YouTube. Growing up in Zagreb, Croatia, where college and WNBA games were seldom televised and media coverage was limited, Muhl’s main exposure to basketball outside Europe came from online clips. Bird’s highlights were the most accessible, inspiring Muhl to mimic her moves with dreams of someday playing in the NCAA.
Muhl joined Bird’s alma mater in 2020, wearing No. 10, a number she chose by chance in her youth basketball days. Upon arrival, she quickly realized the legendary significance of the jersey she now wore. “Coaches often share stories of our alumni, especially Sue and her approach to everything,” Muhl said. “Her name is always on the wall, setting a high standard.”
While many current players never witnessed Bird in her prime, UW honored her by retiring her No. 10 jersey at Gampel Pavilion before a game against DePaul. Though no active players from Bird’s era were present, the Huskies donned the classic white “Sue Bird uniforms” from 1998 to 2002. Coach Geno Auriemma noted that Bird’s legacy continues to inspire young players both on and off the court, urging them to study her game to learn valuable lessons.
Muhl herself was a remarkable point guard, becoming the last player to wear No. 10 before its retirement. She broke Bird’s program record for single-season assists in 2022-23, set the senior class assist record in 2023-24, and finished as UW’s all-time assist leader, while Bird ranks seventh. Muhl chuckled remembering how unlikely she once thought it was to break Bird’s records and expressed deep respect for Bird’s hard work and achievements.
Bird’s impact resonates strongly among current players at Storrs. Sophomore Kaylee Heckel, from near Bird’s hometown of Syosset, New York, admires her as a role model. Huskies star Azee Fudd, who has met other basketball greats, said meeting Bird in person deepened her appreciation for Bird’s on- and off-court influence.
Bird’s impressive accolades span two NCAA championships, three Nancy Lieberman Awards, multiple All-American honors, four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm, 13 All-Star selections, and records in assists. She also contributed to five Olympic gold medals and four FIBA World Championships with USA Basketball. Yet, her leadership is what stands out most. Before unveiling Bird’s jersey, Auriemma called her “the greatest point guard in basketball history,” citing her exceptional leadership qualities on and off the court and the deep trust she earned.
Bird’s leadership extended into her professional career where she played an active role in the WNBA Players Association, helping negotiate collective bargaining agreements that advanced player pay and rights, and driving social justice initiatives during the 2020 season. Huskies guard Ashlyn Shade said Bird’s powerful voice and representation make her jersey retirement especially meaningful.
Muhl finds it strange that No. 10 will no longer be assigned at UW but believes it should stay exclusive to Bird forever. Since joining the Seattle Storm in 2024, Muhl has grown used to seeing Bird’s jersey at Climate Pledge Arena and always expected the number to be honored at Gampel Pavilion as well. “We were all just waiting for it to happen,” Muhl said. “I’m proud to be part of it even a little bit and hope to live up to the legacy.”
Fan Take: Sue Bird’s jersey retirement is a monumental moment for WNBA fans, symbolizing the enduring legacy of one of basketball’s finest leaders. It encourages young athletes to strive for excellence not just in skills but also in leadership and advocacy, signaling a bright future for the sport’s growth and impact.
