Storm PG Sue Bird exited her team's locker rooms at the practice facility belting, "Where's my escort?" officially kicking off Storm Media Day 2009. It was a little intimidating as a throng of players followed her, most new faces, all wearing their home white jerseys.

The players are at the various stations now, taking pictures with kids, doing spots for the jumbo screen inside KeyArena, and taking portraits, of course. They'll eventually make their way to media for interviews.

Some changes are no food and no Seattle P-I print reporter. But there's still a good group of us circling the press area, waiting for our turn. The team also has practice this evening, making it a full day that F Camille Little already griped about to her escort. Storm coach Brian Agler said he won't have two-a-days this season, choosing instead to have one long practice.

PICK A NUMBER: Turns out No. 8 was about Kimberly Beck's 10th choice last season as a rookie. She wanted her No. 5 from college, but Roneeka Hodges had that jersey, although Hodges was eventually cut. Beck then said she asked for her original No. 10 and was laughed off the phone (that's Bird's number). Well, with Hodges gone, Beck got the No. 5 she coveted. Yet, there are still thoughts about swiping No. 10. "I'll shoot her for it," Beck joked, noting that she'd probably still lose out.

CASH EN ROUTE: Storm F Swin Cash tweeted that she received clearance today from her surgeon to play this summer. She had outpatient back surgery in March and today marked the 10-week rehabilitation date. Cash caught an evening flight from Pennsylvania to Seattle and should attend practice on Tuesday. Teammate Tanisha Wright should arrive later this week, completing play in France on Sunday.

CONTRACT DEALS: Storm CEO Karen Bryant said the team is currently negotiating with representatives for coach Brian Agler and Bird about extending their contracts. Agler signed a two-year deal last season while Bird was "cored" and cannot have that tag placed on her again, allowing her to test the market for the first time. But in a conversation on Friday, Bird said she's not really interested in playing elsewhere. Like Lauren Jackson, Bird likes the thought of completing her WNBA career with one team. More in Tuesday's paper.