Bird already talking new contract with Storm

SEATTLE – Sue Bird saw up close last winter the lobbying and recruiting Lauren Jackson faced as a free agent before Jackson ultimately decided to re-sign with the Seattle Storm.

Bird doesn’t sound all that interested in seeing other teams fighting over her services.

“This is the place where I started my career. Hopefully it’s the place where I’ll end it,” she said Monday. “We’ll see.”

For the first time in years, Bird is in town for the start of Storm training camp, not delayed by obligations in Europe or with the U.S. national team.

One of the most recognizable faces of the franchise – celebrating its 10th anniversary this season – Bird has spent all seven of her seasons in Seattle. She will be an unrestricted free agent following the 2009 season.

Along with trying to secure Bird’s future, the team is also hoping to lock up Jackson and head coach Brian Agler.

Jackson agreed to a one-year deal, but with the thought that a long-term contract would be discussed later. Jackson is expected in Seattle about a week before the season opener on June 6 at Sacramento.

Agler led Seattle to a 22-12 regular season mark in his first year in Seattle, before the Storm were bounced from the first round of the playoffs.