When it comes to the most prominent athletes in the history of the WNBA, Sue Bird is regarded as one of its most important figures. She drove the league forward through her accomplishments and how she carried herself on the court. Barbie has unveiled a Role Model doll of the Storm legend in its 65th Anniversary. It is to celebrate her legacy.
This is an incredible moment for the iconic brand worth $126 billion, according to Forbes, and the four-time league champion. The WNBA has seen several contributors to its growth over the years, and such is the case for Sue Bird, the all-time leader in assists at 3234.
On Monday, USA Today's Meghan L. Hall shared the latest development on X, formerly known as "Twitter."
The doll jersey features a great mix of red, blue and white in its overall colorway while also including Bird's signature number 10 at the center. The doll also includes a basketball for kids to play with as the toy was designed to be "Made to Move" to provide a complete experience.
In a released statement, Barbie's senior vice president Krista Berger spoke highly of the imprint left by Sue Bird during her time playing in the WNBA. Additionally, she is proud to welcome and include the former Seattle Storm guard into the brand's Role Model lineup.
"Throughout her 21-year career as a trailblazer in the women's basketball league," Berger said, "Sue Bird's perseverance and authenticity have paved the way for more representation and attention on women in professional basketball and in sports. ... the Barbie brand is proud to welcome Sue Bird into the Barbie Role Model collection..."
Bird played over 19 seasons in the league with an average of 11.7 points (42.9% shooting, including 39.2% from beyond the arc) and 5.6 assists per game.
Sue Bird is ecstatic over having her own Barbie doll as part of its Role Model collection
In an interview with PEOPLE's Tanisha Bhat, Bird shared her excitement over her inclusion in the Barbie doll's lineup.
"I was really excited when I heard," Bird said. "I grew up playing with Barbies, so it's kind of a surreal moment when something like this happens."
Alongside Bird, she is joined by other prominent athletes from various sports. Legendary tennis player Venus Williams and gymnast Alexa Moreno are part of Barbie's promising lineup of dolls. It is to provide a different kind of representation in one of the prominent doll brands.
The Storm legend also described this moment as a highlight for her with the hope of being a guiding hand of sorts for the younger generation.
Sue Bird's Barbie doll can now be purchased at the Mattel Shop's online store for $30.